For a pregnant patient in cardiac arrest, what is the first step you should take?

The first step to take for a pregnant patient in cardiac arrest is to activate maternal and neonatal resuscitation teams. This approach is critical because specialized teams are trained to manage the complexities of resuscitation in pregnant women, who may have unique physiological changes and risks for both the mother and the fetus.

Activating these teams ensures that appropriate resources and expertise are mobilized quickly. Time is of the essence in a cardiac arrest situation, and the presence of these specialized teams can improve outcomes significantly. They can provide comprehensive care that addresses both maternal and neonatal needs, including potential interventions like resuscitative cesarean delivery if required later in the process.

Other choices, while potentially relevant in different contexts, are not the initial priorities in this situation. For example, performing a resuscitative cesarean delivery is a critical step but generally follows after initial resuscitation efforts and when the maternal and neonatal teams are present. Abdominal thrusts are used for clearing obstructions and are not applicable in cardiac arrest. Administering medications is also essential, but it typically occurs after the appropriate teams are activated and the initial CPR efforts have begun. Thus, activating the resuscitation teams is the foundational and most crucial first step.