What are the criteria for terminating resuscitation efforts after they have started?

The criteria for terminating resuscitation efforts are based on established guidelines that help determine when it is no longer effective to continue life-saving measures. The correct criteria involve evaluating the patient's cardiac rhythm and clinical parameters indicating a lack of return of spontaneous circulation.

When there is persistent asystole for a duration of 15 minutes coupled with an EtCO2 level of less than 10 mmHg, this indicates both a non-perfusing rhythm and ineffective ventilation. Asystole implies a complete absence of electrical activity in the heart, and the low EtCO2 reflects inadequate circulation and poor perfusion. Therefore, these factors together provide a strong rationale for discontinuing resuscitation efforts because they suggest that the patient is unlikely to survive even with continued intervention.

The other options, while they mention scenarios for terminating resuscitation, are not as definitive or well-supported by protocol as the mentioned criteria. Continuous CPR for 30 minutes without a response does not necessarily take into account the specific cardiac rhythm observed or the physiological indicators like EtCO2. Similarly, delivering one shock followed by CPR may not provide enough time to assess the effectiveness of resuscitation since immediate post-shock CPR is critical. Paramedic discretion is important in many clinical decisions, but it