American Lifeguard Practice Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The primary benefit of early defibrillation in cardiac arrest situations is that it significantly increases the chance of survival for victims experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. When defibrillation is applied promptly, it helps to restore a normal heart rhythm, leading to a higher likelihood of recovery and survival. Statistics suggest that for every minute that passes without defibrillation, the chance of survival decreases by approximately 10%. Thus, initiating defibrillation as soon as possible is crucial in improving outcomes.

This is why the focus is on the increased chance of recovery; earlier intervention directly correlates with better survival rates and overall cardiac function restoration. While reducing waiting times for emergency services, saving more victims, and lowering treatment costs are important factors in the overall scenario, they do not directly address the immediate impact and effectiveness of defibrillation in the critical moments following a cardiac arrest.