What is the first action when you witness a pediatric collapse suspected of cardiac arrest?

• A. Call emergency services first, then begin CPR only after confirmation.
• B. Shout for help and start high-quality CPR immediately while someone calls emergency services.
• C. Check responsiveness before acting.
• D. Move the child to a safe location and wait for professionals.

Answer: (B)

When you witness a pediatric collapse suspected of cardiac arrest, the priority is to provide immediate circulation and get help moving quickly. Starting high-quality CPR right away maintains blood flow to the brain and heart, which is crucial for a child whose arrest is often linked to respiratory problems that rapidly compromise perfusion. Shouting for help ensures someone calls emergency services and, if available, brings an AED and additional responders. Having another person involved helps you keep compressions continuous and switch roles as needed, preserving the quality of CPR. Delays by waiting for confirmation, moving the child, or waiting for professionals to arrive before starting CPR can waste precious seconds. The best approach is to begin CPR immediately and have someone call for help at the same time.