In the case of cardiac arrest, what is the first step EMS personnel should take?

In cases of cardiac arrest, immediate action is crucial, and beginning chest compressions is a fundamental step in the chain of survival. The priority in such emergencies is to restore blood circulation and oxygenation to vital organs, particularly the brain.

Chest compressions serve to manually pump the heart and maintain blood flow. Studies and guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association, emphasize that starting chest compressions as soon as possible can significantly increase the chances of survival. This approach is particularly important in the first few minutes after a cardiac arrest occurs, as every second counts in preserving brain function before definitive medical treatment can be provided.

Calling for advanced medical backup, while important, is typically a step that should happen concurrently with initiating compressions. It does not replace the urgent need for immediate action to support circulation. Similarly, administering rescue breaths is part of the traditional CPR method but is less emphasized during a cardiac arrest when chest compressions alone can sustain life in many scenarios. Checking the patient's pulse may not lead to timely intervention; in many cases, if an arrest is suspected, it's better to act immediately rather than taking the time to locate a pulse that might not be present. Thus, the correct initiation of chest compressions reflects the prioritized approach to managing cardiac