What is the priority intervention for a patient in cardiac arrest?

The priority intervention for a patient in cardiac arrest is to initiate high-quality CPR and call for emergency assistance. This immediate action is critical because during cardiac arrest, the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to a lack of oxygenated blood flow to vital organs, particularly the brain. High-quality CPR helps maintain blood circulation, which can buy time until advanced medical support arrives. It is essential to ensure compressions are performed correctly—at the right depth and rate—while minimizing interruptions in chest compressions.

Calling for emergency assistance is also crucial; the sooner trained responders arrive with advanced resuscitation equipment and medications, the higher the chance of survival for the patient. By prioritizing these actions, the emergency responder can significantly improve the likelihood of a favorable outcome in an emergency situation.