What should an EMT do if a patient is unconscious and has no pulse?

Performing CPR immediately is the appropriate action when faced with a patient who is unconscious and has no pulse, as this indicates cardiac arrest. Starting CPR is critical because it helps maintain blood flow to vital organs, such as the brain and heart, until advanced medical help can arrive. The effectiveness of CPR can significantly increase the chances of survival and recovery for the patient.

In a situation where a person is unresponsive and pulseless, initiating chest compressions without delay is paramount, as every moment counts in a cardiac emergency. This aligns with established guidelines that recommend early CPR as a crucial step in the chain of survival, which can lead to increased positive outcomes when followed by advanced interventions from responders.

Other options, such as waiting for responders, checking for signs of life every few minutes, or administering oxygen therapy, may delay critical intervention. The time it takes to provide effective CPR can directly impact the patient's chances of survival, making immediate action necessary in these scenarios.