A client's family member expresses concern about performing CPR on the client, fearing they might do something wrong. How should the nurse respond?

A) Correct. The absence of a pulse is the most reliable indicator of cardiac arrest. In cardiac arrest, the heart is no longer pumping effectively, leading to the absence of a palpable pulse.

B) Incorrect. An irregular breathing pattern may be observed in various medical conditions, including respiratory distress, but it is not as definitive as the absence of a pulse in indicating cardiac arrest.

C) Incorrect. Cyanosis of the lips and fingertips can occur in various situations, such as respiratory failure or decreased oxygenation, but it is not specific to cardiac arrest.

D) Incorrect. Sudden loss of consciousness can occur due to various reasons, including seizures or fainting, and is not solely indicative of cardiac arrest.

A) Correct. The first step in BLS for adult cardiac arrest is to check for responsiveness and call for help. It is crucial to quickly assess whether the victim is conscious and breathing before proceeding with CPR.

B) Incorrect. In adult cardiac arrest, the first step is not to deliver rescue breaths. Rescue breaths are part of the BLS sequence, but they come after chest compressions have been initiated.

C) Incorrect. While assessing the victim's pulse is important, it is not the first step in adult cardiac arrest management. The first step is to check for responsiveness and call for help.

D) Incorrect. Administering an opioid antagonist is not part of the BLS guidelines. The focus of BLS is on providing immediate chest compressions and rescue breaths to support circulation and oxygenation.