A child is unresponsive and not breathing. What should the second provider do when the first provider begins CPR?

When a child is unresponsive and not breathing, initiating CPR is critical for improving outcomes. The second provider should focus on supporting the first provider by preparing necessary equipment to enhance care, and this is where retrieving the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM) comes into play.

The AED is vital because it can analyze the heart rhythm and determine if a shock is needed, which is essential for patients experiencing certain types of cardiac arrest. The BVM allows for effective ventilation, ensuring that the child receives adequate oxygen during resuscitation efforts. This equipment plays a key role in advanced airway management and the delivery of breaths.

While calling for help is also important, having the second provider actively prepare medical equipment enhances the chances of survival significantly. This action supports the continuity of care, as the first provider can continue with high-quality chest compressions while the second prepares the tools necessary for next steps. Taking over CPR could divert the primary provider's attention away from delivering consistent compressions, which are crucial in the early minutes of cardiac arrest.

In summary, retrieving the AED and BVM aligns with the immediate needs of the situation, ensuring that advanced life support measures can be instituted as quickly as possible after CPR is initiated.