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Defibrillation in a wet environment — DIPIMC MCQ

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ModerateResuscitationDefibrillation in a wet environmentDIPIMCDipIMC

A man collapses on a poolside and is in ventricular fibrillation. His chest is wet and there are puddles of water around him. An AED has been attached.

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Dry the chest and ensure there are no puddles before delivering the shock

Explanation lettering: E = shown as C · C = shown as D · D = shown as E

Before defibrillating, the chest should be dried and the patient moved clear of standing water, because water on the skin can cause current to track across the surface and pose an arcing and safety hazard. Shocking immediately on a wet chest in puddles (B) is unsafe and reduces effective energy delivery. Defibrillation is not contraindicated by a wet environment, but the environment must first be made safe.

Reference: Resuscitation Council UK 2025; JRCALC