What is the first action a nurse should take when faced with a patient in cardiac arrest?

What is the first action a nurse should take when faced with a patient in cardiac arrest?

• A. Call for help
• B. Begin CPR
• C. Check for a pulse
• D. Administer oxygen

Answer: (B)

When encountering a patient in cardiac arrest, the immediate priority for the nurse is to initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Starting CPR is crucial because it helps to maintain blood flow to vital organs, particularly the brain, and increases the chances of survival until advanced medical help arrives. CPR involves chest compressions and rescue breaths, which can significantly improve outcomes in cardiac arrest situations. This intervention should be started as quickly as possible, ideally within the first few minutes of the patient's collapse, as the chances of a successful restoration of heart function decline rapidly with every minute that passes without intervention. In situations of cardiac arrest, while checking for a pulse, calling for help, or administering oxygen are important steps in the overall emergency response, they should occur after initiating CPR. Time is of the essence, and beginning chest compressions immediately creates a critical difference for the patient's chance of survival.

When encountering a patient in cardiac arrest, the immediate priority for the nurse is to initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Starting CPR is crucial because it helps to maintain blood flow to vital organs, particularly the brain, and increases the chances of survival until advanced medical help arrives.

CPR involves chest compressions and rescue breaths, which can significantly improve outcomes in cardiac arrest situations. This intervention should be started as quickly as possible, ideally within the first few minutes of the patient's collapse, as the chances of a successful restoration of heart function decline rapidly with every minute that passes without intervention.

In situations of cardiac arrest, while checking for a pulse, calling for help, or administering oxygen are important steps in the overall emergency response, they should occur after initiating CPR. Time is of the essence, and beginning chest compressions immediately creates a critical difference for the patient's chance of survival.