What should be assumed when the cause of cardiac arrest is undetermined?

When the cause of cardiac arrest is undetermined, it is critical to assume that it is cardiac in nature and treat accordingly. This is based on established protocols that prioritize immediate interventions that align with the most common and likely causes of cardiac arrest. Since many cardiac arrests originate from heart-related issues such as arrhythmias or myocardial infarctions, taking this approach allows responders to implement life-saving treatments without delay.

In such scenarios, initiating the appropriate actions—such as CPR and utilizing an automated external defibrillator (AED)—can significantly improve the chances of patient survival. By treating the arrest as cardiac in nature, protocols ensure that the patient receives the most effective care tailored to the most probable cause, aligning with emergency response guidelines that emphasize rapid intervention in situations where time is critical.