What is the first action in a situation involving suspected cardiac arrest?

In a situation involving suspected cardiac arrest, the correct initial action is to call for emergency medical help immediately and then begin CPR. This is based on the recognition that time is critical in such emergencies and that early intervention can significantly improve the chances of survival.

When a person is unresponsive and not breathing, the immediate priority is to ensure that professional emergency services are alerted. This not only brings trained medical personnel to the scene as quickly as possible but also allows the rescuer to focus on performing CPR effectively without interruption. Starting CPR without first calling for help can delay the arrival of emergency services, which is crucial for advanced care that may be needed.

The sequence of actions is essential: calling for help ensures that additional resources are on their way while CPR is being initiated. The heart and brain can sustain damage within minutes without oxygen, underscoring the importance of prompt action. Therefore, combining the call for help with the commencement of CPR maximizes the victim's chances of survival during a cardiac event.