During a cardiac arrest, what immediate care should be provided?

In the event of a cardiac arrest, the immediate care that should be provided involves using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and performing Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). This response is crucial because cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops beating effectively, resulting in the cessation of blood flow to vital organs, including the brain.

Using an AED is critical as it can analyze the heart's rhythm and deliver a shock if necessary, which may restore a normal heart rhythm. Meanwhile, CPR serves to manually maintain circulation and oxygenation of the blood until more advanced medical help can be provided. The combination of these two techniques significantly increases the chances of survival and minimizes the risk of long-term damage to the individual.

Other approaches, such as administering only oxygen, are ineffective without proper circulation. Lying the patient flat may not be the best position for CPR, and providing fluids orally is dangerous as the patient may be unconscious and unable to swallow. Therefore, the use of an AED along with CPR stands out as the most urgent and effective intervention during a cardiac arrest.