You have assessed your patient and recognized that they are in cardiac arrest. You should begin CPR __________.

The correct response highlights the importance of initiating CPR without delay once a patient is identified as being in cardiac arrest. In emergency situations, the first few minutes are critical for the survival of an individual experiencing cardiac arrest. Studies have shown that the likelihood of survival diminishes significantly with each passing minute without effective CPR and defibrillation.

Beginning CPR immediately after confirming cardiac arrest maximizes the chances of restoring circulation and improving outcomes. It ensures that the blood continues to flow to vital organs, particularly the brain, until advanced medical help can arrive or until an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) can be utilized. This principle of immediate action is a key component of BLS training and emphasizes the urgency required in such life-threatening scenarios.

While the timeframes mentioned in the other options suggest a delay in action, immediate initiation of CPR is essential to address the critical nature of the situation effectively.