In the context of CPR, what is the immediate step after recognizing a patient is in cardiac arrest?

In the context of CPR, the immediate step after recognizing a patient is in cardiac arrest is to start chest compressions. This is crucial because chest compressions help to manually circulate blood to vital organs, such as the brain and heart, when the heart is no longer pumping effectively. The key focus is to provide immediate circulation to preserve brain function and increase the chances of survival until advanced medical help arrives.

Initiating chest compressions promptly can significantly impact the patient's outcome, as delays in chest compressions can result in decreased chances of survival. The standard protocol emphasizes starting chest compressions within seconds of determining that the patient is unresponsive and not breathing normally.

While calling for emergency help and checking the airway are important steps in the overall process of CPR, the priority must be given to initiating chest compressions to maintain blood flow and prevent irreversible damage due to lack of oxygen. Rescue breathing can be incorporated later if trained and necessary, but the primary action in a witnessed cardiac arrest is to provide chest compressions first.