What should be done immediately after calling for emergency help?

Following the call for emergency help, the most critical step is to continue with compressions if you are currently performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). When someone has experienced a cardiac arrest, every second counts, and maintaining a consistent rhythm of chest compressions is essential for preserving blood flow to vital organs like the brain and heart.

By continuing compressions, you ensure that oxygenated blood is still circulating in the body, which can significantly increase the chances of survival until professional help arrives. It's important that the compressions are deep and fast, following the recommended guidelines of at least 100 to 120 compressions per minute.

While using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is crucial when available, it comes after maintaining effective compressions. Checking for a pulse can take time and may interrupt the continuous cycle of CPR, whereas taking a break from CPR can potentially result in the patient not receiving the immediate care they desperately need. Therefore, the priority remains with persistent compressions immediately after summoning for emergency assistance.