You are performing chest compressions on an unresponsive 82-year-old female when your partner returns with the AED. What should you do?

Continuing chest compressions while your partner attaches the AED is the correct approach in this scenario. The emphasis on high-quality chest compressions is crucial during cardiac arrest situations, as they provide necessary circulation and oxygenation to vital organs, particularly in the critical moments before the defibrillator can be applied.

Stopping compressions to attach the AED could potentially delay the delivery of effective CPR, which is vital to maintain blood flow to the brain and heart. The American Heart Association guidelines recommend minimizing interruptions in chest compressions whenever possible, which is why continuing compressions allows for sustained circulation.

Additionally, once the AED is attached and ready to analyze the rhythm, chest compressions can be paused for that brief moment to allow for rhythm analysis, but keeping compressions ongoing until the AED is fully operational is ideal to ensure that the patient receives optimal care throughout the entire resuscitation attempt.