What should you do immediately when encountering a person in cardiac arrest?

Beginning CPR immediately is the most critical step when encountering a person in cardiac arrest. This action is vital because it helps maintain blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. The heart has stopped pumping effectively, which means there is no circulation; therefore, initiating CPR can help buy time until advanced medical care arrives.

By performing chest compressions at the correct rate and depth, CPR can help restore some level of blood circulation, which is crucial in increasing the chances of survival and reducing the risk of brain damage that can occur from lack of oxygen. The American Heart Association emphasizes the importance of high-quality CPR, stating that it is the foundation of resuscitation efforts and can double or triple the likelihood of survival after cardiac arrest.

While calling for help and using a defibrillator are also important components of the response to a cardiac arrest scenario, those actions come after initiating CPR. Checking for a pulse is generally not recommended as it can delay the start of lifesaving interventions. The primary focus should initially be on immediately starting CPR to maintain blood circulation until professional help is available.