If the heart rate after one minute of CPR is 50 bpm, what is the next recommended action?

When a heart rate of 50 beats per minute is detected after one minute of CPR, this indicates that the patient is likely experiencing a state of inadequate circulation, such as bradycardia, which is a slow heart rate that can be insufficient to maintain adequate perfusion. In this scenario, the recommended action is to continue CPR and prepare to administer intravenous epinephrine.

Administering epinephrine can help stimulate the heart and improve its rate and effectiveness, particularly in cases of cardiac arrest or severe bradycardia. Continuing CPR while preparing for epinephrine is critical because high-quality chest compressions are essential for maintaining blood flow to vital organs until effective interventions can be delivered, such as medication or the potential for defibrillation if the rhythm is shockable.

Maintaining consistent CPR not only helps generate some blood flow but also supports the administration of epinephrine, which could lead to a better outcome. The option to pause CPR or increase ventilation rates is not appropriate in this situation because it may interrupt the necessary chest compressions that provide the best chance of survival. Stopping CPR to provide rescue breaths could also be counterproductive, as continuous compressions are vital for circulation during cardiac arrest situations.