What is the immediate action to take when you determine a patient is in cardiac arrest?

When a patient is determined to be in cardiac arrest, the immediate action is to start CPR with chest compressions. This step is critical because chest compressions help maintain blood flow to vital organs, including the heart and brain, until advanced medical assistance can arrive or an automated external defibrillator (AED) can be applied.

Initiating CPR as quickly as possible significantly increases the chances of survival and minimizes the risk of brain damage due to lack of oxygen. The emphasis on beginning chest compressions immediately stems from the urgency of the situation; every moment counts in a cardiac arrest scenario, and immediate action is vital in restoring circulation.

While preparing the AED, calling for emergency help, or checking for responsiveness are important components of the overall response to a cardiac arrest, they should follow the initiation of CPR. The underlying focus should always be on restoring blood flow, making chest compressions the priority action in this life-threatening emergency.