What should be done first upon recognizing cardiac arrest in a patient?

When recognizing cardiac arrest in a patient, the first step is to activate the emergency response system, which is typically done by calling for emergency help. However, in the context of immediately addressing the patient's needs, starting CPR is the most critical action that needs to be taken right away.

Initiating CPR provides the patient with artificial circulation and aids in maintaining blood flow to the vital organs, especially the brain and the heart, until professional medical help arrives. The rationale for starting CPR immediately is based on the understanding that every minute counts in a cardiac arrest situation. Survival rates significantly decrease with each passing minute without effective intervention.

Once CPR has been initiated, emergency services should then be called, or, if you are not alone, it may be appropriate to have someone else do it while you begin chest compressions. Only after these crucial steps should an AED be utilized, followed by the consideration of medication administration as instructed by healthcare guidelines.