What should be done immediately after calling for help during a CPR emergency?

Starting chest compressions immediately after calling for help during a CPR emergency is critical because it initiates the vital process of maintaining blood circulation in a person experiencing cardiac arrest. The effectiveness of chest compressions significantly impacts the victim's chances of survival and recovery.

When performed correctly, chest compressions help to pump blood to the heart and brain, ensuring that these vital organs continue to receive oxygen-rich blood until advanced medical help arrives. This is especially important, as every second counts in such emergencies; timely compressions can preserve brain function and increase the likelihood of a positive outcome.

Rescue breaths, while also important, should typically follow the initiation of chest compressions, particularly in adults or in situations where hands-only CPR is being applied. Waiting for the ambulance to arrive or checking the victim’s blood pressure would divert attention from immediate life-saving actions, which compromises the victim's chances of survival during such a critical situation.