What actions should you take if you suspect someone is in cardiac arrest?

• A. Call 9-1-1, perform hands-only CPR.
• B. Wait for someone else to call 9-1-1.
• C. Check a pulse for several minutes before acting.
• D. Wait for signs of breathing before starting CPR.

Answer: (A)

When someone may be in cardiac arrest, the priority is to keep blood flowing and get help on the way. Call 911 immediately and start hands-only CPR right away. This approach is best because chest compressions push blood to the brain and vital organs, buying time until professional help or an AED arrives. You don’t need to wait for rescue breaths; hands-only CPR is effective for bystanders and much faster to begin.

Delays cost lives: waiting for someone else to call for help slows response, and trying to check a pulse for several minutes or waiting for visible signs of breathing can waste precious time. If the person is truly in cardiac arrest, they won’t have effective breathing or a reliable pulse, so you should act now and start CPR. If an AED is available, turn it on and follow its prompts as soon as you can.