What action should be taken if a defibrillator is available on the scene?

Using a defibrillator as soon as possible is crucial for increasing the chances of survival in a patient experiencing a cardiac arrest. When a defibrillator is available, it can deliver an electric shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm, especially if the patient is in a shockable rhythm like ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia. The sooner the defibrillator is used, the better the outcome for the patient, as every minute counts when it comes to effective resuscitation.

The device is designed to be user-friendly and often provides audio and visual prompts to guide the user, making it accessible even to those who may not be highly trained in advanced medical procedures. Immediate defibrillation, coupled with early CPR, significantly enhances the likelihood of survival and recovery.