An older homeless client experiences cardiac arrest and has no resuscitation orders. Which action should the nurse take first?

An older homeless client experiences cardiac arrest and has no resuscitation orders. Which action should the nurse take first?

• A. Begin chest compressions.
• B. Notify the nursing supervisor.
• C. Obtain a prescription for DNR.
• D. Attempt to contact the client's next of kin.

Answer: (A)

In an emergency like cardiac arrest, the immediate goal is to restore circulation and oxygen delivery. If there is no resuscitation order on file, the default and lifesaving action is to initiate chest compressions right away. Time matters: each moment without perfusion reduces the chances of survival and increases the risk of brain injury. While discussing future care or notifying supervisors or relatives is important, these steps should not delay the start of CPR. Beginning chest compressions now aligns with the standard of care and ethical obligation to preserve life in the absence of a documented DNR.

In an emergency like cardiac arrest, the immediate goal is to restore circulation and oxygen delivery. If there is no resuscitation order on file, the default and lifesaving action is to initiate chest compressions right away. Time matters: each moment without perfusion reduces the chances of survival and increases the risk of brain injury. While discussing future care or notifying supervisors or relatives is important, these steps should not delay the start of CPR. Beginning chest compressions now aligns with the standard of care and ethical obligation to preserve life in the absence of a documented DNR.