In the treatment plan for cardiac arrest, which intervention is crucial after performing CPR?

In the treatment plan for cardiac arrest, securing the airway is a crucial intervention after performing CPR because it ensures that oxygen can be delivered effectively to the lungs. During a cardiac arrest, the heart is not pumping blood, which means the body's oxygen supply is critically low. If the airway is not secured, there is a risk of airway obstruction, which can prevent any oxygen delivered through rescue breaths from reaching the lungs and being circulated to the brain and vital organs.

By establishing an open airway, healthcare providers can ensure that ventilation is achieved, thereby maximizing the effectiveness of CPR and improving the chances of successful resuscitation. Once the airway is secured, other interventions, such as administering medications or fluids, monitoring vital signs, and preparing for transport to a hospital, can be appropriately managed. This step is fundamental as it directly impacts the patient's survival and recovery.