What should you do first if you believe someone is in cardiac arrest?

Starting CPR immediately is crucial when you believe someone is in cardiac arrest because their heart is not effectively pumping blood to the vital organs, including the brain. Each minute that passes without CPR drastically reduces the chances of survival and increases the risk of brain damage due to oxygen deprivation.

CPR serves two primary purposes: it helps maintain blood flow to the heart and brain and can also help in restoring a normal heart rhythm if an automated external defibrillator (AED) is used later on. Therefore, initiating CPR right away is vital to sustaining the individual’s life until emergency medical services can arrive.

Maintaining a focus on immediate action, rather than waiting for help or checking for a pulse, is essential in such urgent situations. While checking for a pulse might confirm cardiac arrest, it can waste precious time. Similarly, the recovery position is appropriate for someone who is breathing normally but is not suitable in a cardiac arrest scenario where prompt action is needed.