While you are assisting in the clinic, you notice a patient suddenly becomes unresponsive, is not breathing, and has no palpable pulse. After calling for help and activating the emergency response system, what is the NEXT best step you should take?
Start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with chest compressions.
Wait for emergency medical services (EMS) to arrive before starting any intervention.
Elevate the patient's legs to increase blood flow to the heart.
Check the patient's mouth for obstructions and remove if any are found.
Immediate commencement of chest compressions is crucial for a patient suffering from cardiac arrest; this action works to maintain blood circulation, providing essential oxygen and nutrients to the body's tissues, particularly the brain and heart. Elevated positioning of the legs (Trendelenburg position) is not recommended as it has not been proven beneficial in the event of cardiac arrest and can hinder resuscitative efforts. Waiting for EMS without providing immediate intervention could result in a poorer outcome for the patient due to lack of oxygen delivery to crucial organs. Checking for blocked airways is also important, but only after chest compressions have been initiated if you are alone, according to the American Heart Association's guidelines.
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