What is the first action to take after you call 911 when witnessing a sudden collapse?

After you call 911 during a sudden collapse, the immediate priority is to start CPR, especially if the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally. This action is critical because effective chest compressions can help maintain blood flow to vital organs until emergency medical services arrive. CPR dramatically increases the chances of survival in cases of cardiac arrest by restoring circulation and oxygenation to the brain and other essential organs.

Calling for emergency assistance ensures that professional help is on the way, but the first steps in providing care, specifically initiating CPR, are vital within the first few minutes of a cardiac event. This response aligns with the guidelines set forth by CPR training organizations, which emphasize that starting chest compressions as soon as possible is key to improving outcomes in cardiac emergencies.

While checking for responsiveness and locating an AED are also important, they can take time that should be spent on performing CPR in cases where the individual is in distress. Moving the person should only be considered if they are in a dangerous location, but that is not a priority immediately after calling for help. The focus must be on providing lifesaving measures to stabilize the individual.