What should a provider do immediately after recognizing that a patient is in cardiac arrest?

The immediate response to recognizing a patient in cardiac arrest is to initiate CPR within 10 seconds. This is critical because the heart has stopped pumping blood, and without immediate intervention, the patient risks irreversible brain damage and death due to lack of oxygen. CPR helps maintain blood circulation to vital organs, giving the patient a better chance of survival until more advanced medical help can be provided.

Timeliness is a key factor in CPR effectiveness; starting chest compressions as quickly as possible is vital in this emergency situation. Proper chest compression technique can maintain some blood circulation, which is crucial for preserving the function of vital organs.

While it's important for healthcare providers to call for help, use an AED, or check for the patient's blood pressure, these actions should not delay the initiation of CPR. The primary focus in the first moments of cardiac arrest should always be on cardiovascular support, which is why starting CPR is the correct course of action.