What is the appropriate action to take if a second provider leaves to obtain an AED?

Continuing compressions is critical in a cardiac arrest situation, as high-quality chest compressions help maintain blood flow to the heart and brain until an AED can be retrieved and used. In this scenario, the most appropriate action when a second provider leaves to get an AED is for the remaining provider to keep performing compressions.

This uninterrupted provision of CPR ensures that the patient remains stabilized through the crucial moments before defibrillation. Stopping compressions—either to wait for assistance or to perform breaths only—would reduce the chances of survival, as every second counts in these emergencies. It is essential to maintain consistent compressions at the correct rate and depth to optimize outcomes until advanced medical help arrives or an AED is available for use.