What are the signs of cardiac arrest in a victim?

The correct answer highlights the critical indicators of cardiac arrest, which are unresponsiveness, no breathing, or abnormal breathing patterns. In a state of cardiac arrest, the heart stops pumping blood effectively, leading to a lack of oxygen reaching vital organs, including the brain. As a result, the victim becomes unresponsive because the brain is deprived of oxygen. Furthermore, there will be no normal respiration or only gasping-like or abnormal breathing patterns, known as agonal breathing.

Recognizing these signs is crucial for immediate intervention, as timely activation of emergency medical services and initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can significantly increase the survival rates of cardiac arrest victims. Each second counts, making it essential for responders to act quickly upon noticing these signs.