What should be done first when you witness a cardiac arrest?

In the event of witnessing a cardiac arrest, the first step is to call 911 and activate the emergency response. This is crucial because immediate medical assistance is necessary for increased chances of survival. By alerting emergency services right away, you ensure that professional help is on the way while you take further actions like starting CPR or using an AED.

Activating the emergency response also mobilizes additional resources that can be vital in addressing the situation effectively. Time is of the essence during a cardiac arrest, and establishing contact with emergency services right away is the most critical action to take to minimize delays in providing advanced care.

While starting CPR immediately and using an AED are essential steps to take, they should follow the activation of emergency services. Checking for breathing is also important, but it is secondary to ensuring that professional help is on the way. Hence, the first action should always be to call for help.