If a healthcare provider finds no pulse, what should be the next step?

When a healthcare provider detects the absence of a pulse in a patient, the immediate action is to begin chest compressions. This step is critical in the chain of survival because without a pulse, the heart is not effectively circulating blood, and brain and organ damage can occur very quickly due to the lack of oxygen. By performing chest compressions, the provider can help maintain circulation and improve chances for survival until further help arrives or advanced care can be initiated.

Starting chest compressions is prioritized over calling for help or using an AED because every second counts in a cardiac emergency. Effective compressions can buy crucial time for the patient. While calling for help and using an AED are also important steps in the resuscitation process, they occur either simultaneously or after starting chest compressions, depending on the context and available resources. Overall, initiating chest compressions first is a life-saving action that starts to address the immediate need for blood circulation.