Which rhythm is considered a shockable rhythm during ACLS?

The identification of shockable rhythms is a crucial aspect of Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS). Ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia are classified as shockable rhythms because they result in ineffective heart contractions that can lead to cardiac arrest. The application of an electrical shock, such as through defibrillation, aims to restore a normal rhythm by disrupting the chaotic electrical activity in the heart, providing an opportunity for the heart's natural pacemaker to regain control.

In contrast, rhythms such as pulseless electrical activity, atrial fibrillation, and asystole do not respond to defibrillation. Pulseless electrical activity, while it may show electrical activity on the monitor, does not produce effective mechanical contractions, and defibrillation would not be beneficial. Atrial fibrillation is an irregular but organized rhythm, and while it can lead to complications, it is not considered a shockable rhythm in the context of ACLS. Asystole indicates the absence of electrical activity and, like pulseless electrical activity, requires other interventions beyond electrical shocks to restore circulation.