What is one of the initial steps in the chain of survival for treating cardiac arrest?

Early recognition and calling for help are fundamental steps in responding to a cardiac arrest situation. Recognizing the signs of cardiac arrest, such as unresponsiveness and lack of breathing, allows for prompt action to be taken. This step is crucial because the sooner that help is sought, the quicker emergency medical services (EMS) can arrive on the scene to provide advanced care.

Once the emergency services are alerted, bystanders can initiate basic life support measures, such as CPR and using an automated external defibrillator (AED), both of which are vital for increasing the chances of survival until professional help arrives. Each moment counts in a cardiac arrest scenario, making early recognition and the rapid call for assistance key components of the chain of survival.

The other options, while potentially relevant in later stages of treatment, do not represent the initial response necessary in a cardiac emergency. Immediate surgery and administering medication typically occur only after EMS has arrived and the situation assessed, while contacting a specialist also comes into play later in the process, rather than as an immediate first step.