What should be done first in the event of a suspected cardiac arrest?

The first action that should be taken in the event of a suspected cardiac arrest is to call for emergency help. This step is crucial because it ensures that advanced medical support is on the way while other life-saving measures, such as CPR, can be initiated. Rapid response from emergency services can significantly increase the chances of survival for the patient experiencing a cardiac arrest.

Calling for help activates the emergency response system, allowing for more skilled intervention, including advanced airway management and medication administration, that may be necessary once the first responders arrive. Immediate recognition of cardiac arrest and alerting emergency services provides the foundation for a comprehensive and effective response, benefiting both the patient and the individuals performing CPR.

While initiating CPR is paramount, it is recommended to first ensure that help is called in order to coordinate the best chances of survival. Checking the patient's pulse or using an AED can come after these critical initial steps, but without calling for emergency help, the patient might not receive the necessary advanced care in a timely manner.