Review Question - QID 213596

A 67-year-old man presents to the emergency department for evaluation of shortness of breath. He states he has had worsening shortness of breath over the past several days and decided to seek care today. He has a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and pulmonary embolism. His temperature is 98.6°C (37.0°C), pulse is 120, blood pressure is 110/60 mmHg, respirations are 34/min, and oxygen saturation is 88% on room air. Examination reveals an ill-appearing man. The lungs are clear to auscultation bilaterally. He is placed on the cardiac monitor, and intravenous access is established. As he is being assessed, he becomes unresponsive. Carotid and femoral pulses are unable to be palpated. Chest compressions are initiated. The patient's cardiac rhythm strip is shown in Figure A. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?