Which is a direct consequence of untreated ventricular fibrillation?

Untreated ventricular fibrillation is a critical medical emergency where the heart's electrical activity becomes erratic, leading to ineffective quivering of the heart muscle instead of coordinated contractions. This drastic disruption prevents the heart from pumping blood effectively, which can result in the cessation of circulation.

If ventricular fibrillation is not corrected promptly, it can lead to a rapid decline in vital signs and ultimately result in death. Timely intervention, such as defibrillation, is essential to restoring a normal heart rhythm. Therefore, the direct consequence of untreated ventricular fibrillation is indeed death if not addressed immediately.

The other outcomes do not align with the effects of untreated ventricular fibrillation; there would be no increase in cardiac output, effective muscular contractions, or rapid recovery in such a life-threatening scenario. This highlights the importance of immediate medical response to manage cardiac emergencies effectively.