Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What is the recommended action if a cardiac arrest is unwitnessed and CPR is not in progress?

1. Deliver immediate shock

2. Begin CPR for at least 2 minutes

3. Call for additional help

4. Administer medications immediately

The correct answer is: Begin CPR for at least 2 minutes

In the case of an unwitnessed cardiac arrest, the first recommended action is to begin CPR for at least 2 minutes. This is crucial because initiating high-quality CPR as soon as possible significantly increases the chances of survival and improves the likelihood of a favorable neurological outcome. The emphasis on performing CPR for a sufficient duration, usually around 2 minutes, allows for effective blood flow to the vital organs, particularly the heart and brain, until additional resources and interventions, such as defibrillation, can be administered. By starting with CPR, you provide immediate support to the patient and can evaluate their condition further after the initial 2-minute cycle. This sequence is in line with current guidelines which prioritize early CPR before other interventions in cases where the arrest is not witnessed. It is essential to understand that unless a shockable rhythm is confirmed through monitoring, administering a shock right away may not be appropriate, as CPR is the most critical first step in the management of cardiac arrest in this scenario.