How should responders handle a patient who is not breathing and has no pulse?

When dealing with a patient who is not breathing and has no pulse, the immediate and critical response is to start CPR right away. This action is essential because it helps maintain blood flow to vital organs, particularly the brain, which can suffer damage within minutes without adequate oxygen supply. Performing CPR effectively can significantly increase the chances of survival until advanced medical personnel arrive.

Applying an AED (automated external defibrillator) is important, but it comes after initiating CPR, as the first few minutes are crucial for the patient's chances of survival. Waiting for advanced medical personnel jeopardizes the patient's life by delaying essential interventions that can prevent irreversible damage. Checking for a spinal injury, while important in certain situations, should not delay the administration of CPR because act of not breathing and having no pulse indicates a critical emergency that requires immediate action.