During a call, what is your immediate action if you suspect a patient is experiencing a cardiac arrest?

Initiating CPR immediately is the most critical step when you suspect a patient is experiencing a cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest leads to the cessation of effective blood circulation, which can result in irreversible brain damage and death within minutes if not treated promptly. By starting CPR right away, you can help maintain some level of blood flow to vital organs, improving the patient's chances of survival until advanced medical help can take over.

The immediate action to perform chest compressions is vital because each minute that passes without effective circulation decreases the likelihood of a positive outcome. This response emphasizes the importance of the chain of survival, which hinges on early recognition and immediate intervention.

While other actions, such as calling for advanced life support, checking for a pulse, or using an AED, are also important within the overall response to a cardiac arrest, they should not delay the commencement of CPR. Time is critical in these situations, and starting CPR without delay can significantly affect the patient's survival chances.