When should defibrillation be performed in a patient experiencing cardiac arrest?

Defibrillation should be performed as soon as possible after confirming cardiac arrest because timely intervention is critical in improving the chances of successful resuscitation and survival. Cardiac arrest, particularly in the case of ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia, can lead to irreversible damage if not treated promptly. The primary goal is to restore a normal heart rhythm, and defibrillation is the most effective method to achieve this in arrhythmias associated with cardiac arrest.

Immediate defibrillation aims to restore an effective cardiac rhythm, as studies have shown that for every minute that passes without defibrillation, the chances of survival decrease significantly. This emphasizes the importance of recognizing cardiac arrest quickly and providing immediate defibrillation if indicated.