What equipment is used to generate electrical impulses to the heart during a cardiac arrest?

The defibrillator is the correct answer because it is specifically designed to administer an electrical shock to the heart during cardiac arrest. This device helps to restore a normal rhythm in cases of life-threatening arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia. By delivering a controlled electrical impulse, the defibrillator can interrupt the chaotic electrical activity of the heart, allowing it to regain its normal rhythm and function.

In contrast, a pacemaker is used to maintain a steady heartbeat in individuals with bradycardia or certain arrhythmias but is not employed in emergency situations like cardiac arrest where immediate shock is required. An ECG machine monitors the electrical activity of the heart and provides valuable information for diagnosing heart conditions, but it does not deliver therapeutic electrical impulses. Similarly, a cardiac monitor tracks heart rate and rhythm and can provide alerts for abnormalities, yet it does not have the capability to generate impulses to treat cardiac arrest directly. Therefore, the defibrillator stands out as the essential equipment for generating the necessary electrical impulses during such critical emergencies.