What should bystanders do first during a cardiac emergency?

In a cardiac emergency, the priority is to ensure that professional help is on the way while simultaneously providing immediate care to the victim if necessary. Calling for help is crucial because it alerts emergency responders, who can provide advanced medical assistance. When bystanders contact emergency services, they enable a quick response, which is vital in situations where every second counts.

Additionally, if the victim is unresponsive and not breathing normally, performing CPR can significantly increase their chances of survival. Bystanders who are trained in CPR should start this life-saving technique immediately after calling for help. This dual action not only helps stabilize the victim but also ensures that expert help is en route.

In contrast, actions such as assisting a victim directly without calling for help or waiting for professional assistance do not address the immediate need for emergency resources. Observing the situation offers no benefit to the victim's outcome, and waiting for trained personnel without taking meaningful action can lead to a delay in care that may be detrimental.