What is the first action to take after confirming that a child has no pulse?

Beginning CPR is the immediate and critical action to take after confirming that a child has no pulse. This is because the priority in a cardiac arrest situation is to restore blood circulation and oxygenation to vital organs. Initiating CPR provides chest compressions, which help maintain some blood flow to the heart and brain until further help arrives.

In a pediatric cardiac arrest scenario, each second counts, and timely intervention significantly improves the chances of survival and reduces the risk of neurological damage. While calling for help is also important, it must be secondary to starting CPR if you are alone with the child. Administering oxygen and checking for other signs of life can be considered after CPR has been initiated or in a situation where the responder is certain that they can perform those actions without delay to the critical steps of circulation support.