What should be done if there is a delay in starting CPR?

Starting CPR promptly is critical for increasing the chances of survival in a victim experiencing cardiac arrest. If there is a delay in initiating CPR, it is imperative to resume CPR immediately as soon as it is safe and feasible to do so. This is because the brain and other vital organs can start to suffer from a lack of oxygen within just a few minutes after the heart stops beating. Immediate chest compressions help maintain blood flow to vital organs, thereby enhancing the likelihood of a positive outcome.

In situations where there is a delay, resuming CPR quickly can help mitigate the physiological impact of the cardiac arrest. It is essential to act decisively and without unnecessary hesitation, as every moment counts in preserving brain function and preventing irreversible damage. Therefore, the focus should always be on starting or resuming CPR as soon as the conditions permit.