What should be done if a patient is in cardiac arrest?

When a patient is in cardiac arrest, the most critical immediate action to take is to initiate CPR and prepare for defibrillation. Cardiac arrest indicates that the heart has stopped pumping blood effectively, which means that blood is not circulating to vital organs. Initiating CPR helps maintain some level of blood flow to the brain and other organs, which is crucial for survival. High-quality chest compressions can significantly increase the chances of a successful resuscitation, as it keeps oxygenated blood circulating until advanced medical help arrives.

Defibrillation is also essential for patients experiencing certain types of cardiac arrest, such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia. If a defibrillator is available, it should be prepared for use as soon as possible, as delivering an electric shock can restore a normal heart rhythm if applied correctly and timely.

While obtaining a detailed medical history or administering oxygen may be relevant in an overall assessment of a patient's condition, they are not immediate priorities in the context of a cardiac arrest scenario. Additionally, while calling for additional help is generally good practice, it should not delay the initiation of resuscitation efforts. Time is of the essence in cardiac arrest situations, and initiating CPR can be the difference between life and death.