During AED use, why is no one allowed to touch the patient during analysis?

• A. To keep the patient warm.
• B. To ensure accurate rhythm analysis and avoid false shocks.
• C. To keep the device stable.
• D. To prevent the patient from moving.

Answer: (B)

During analysis the AED is listening for the heart’s electrical rhythm to decide if a shock is needed. Any touch or movement can introduce electrical noise or artifacts, which can distort the reading and lead to an incorrect decision—such as delivering a shock when it isn’t appropriate or missing a shockable rhythm. Keeping everyone away ensures a clean signal so the device can accurately determine whether a shock is needed. It also protects bystanders from potential exposure to the shock if they’re in contact. After the analysis, follow the device prompts and resume CPR as directed.