Which of the following is a critical step in managing a cardiac arrest?

Immediately starting chest compressions is a critical step in managing a cardiac arrest because time is of the essence when a person’s heart has stopped beating effectively. In the absence of a pulse, the heart is not pumping blood, which means there is no oxygenated blood reaching the brain and vital organs. Initiating chest compressions as soon as possible helps to manually circulate blood throughout the body, maintaining perfusion to critical organs and increasing the chances of survival.

The effectiveness of chest compressions lies in their ability to provide some level of blood flow even when the heart is not functioning. Guidelines from organizations such as the American Heart Association recommend that chest compressions begin immediately when a cardiac arrest is identified, prioritizing this action over other interventions. This urgency is crucial because every second counts in preserving life and improving outcomes for the patient.