When should an EMR initiate CPR?

The initiation of CPR by an Emergency Medical Responder is critical in circumstances of cardiac arrest. When a patient shows signs of cardiac arrest—such as unresponsiveness, absence of breathing, or lack of pulse—immediate action is essential. The brain and vital organs begin to suffer irreversible damage within minutes without oxygen, making prompt CPR vital for increasing the chances of survival and a favorable outcome.

Performing CPR during cardiac arrest helps to maintain blood circulation and oxygen delivery to the organs until advanced medical help arrives. This emergency intervention can significantly improve the likelihood of survival and recovery for the patient. Other scenarios, such as when the patient is breathing normally or is merely lethargic, do not warrant the initiation of CPR, as the patient is not in immediate danger of death and may not require that intervention. Additionally, waiting for a directive from a physician would delay essential life-saving measures, which is not appropriate in emergency situations.