How quickly should CPR be initiated after recognizing a patient is in cardiac arrest?

CPR should be initiated as soon as possible after recognizing that a patient is in cardiac arrest, with the recommended timeframe being within 10 seconds. The rationale behind this urgency is that the brain and other vital organs begin to suffer damage from a lack of oxygen shortly after the heart stops beating, and every second counts in maintaining the chance of survival and minimizing long-term damage.

Initiating CPR quickly increases the likelihood of restoring a heartbeat and ensures that blood continues to circulate to the brain and vital organs, thereby keeping the patient viable until advanced medical help arrives. Effective and prompt CPR can double or even triple a victim's chance of survival, emphasizing the importance of acting swiftly.

In light of this information, the correct choice aligns with the best practices in emergency response, which advocate for immediate action — within 10 seconds — when cardiac arrest is suspected. This emphasis on prompt intervention is foundational to American Heart Association guidelines and critical life-saving measures.