What is cardiac arrest?

Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops beating effectively, which means it is no longer pumping blood to the rest of the body. This can lead to a rapid loss of consciousness and cessation of breathing because the vital organs, including the brain, are not receiving the necessary oxygen and nutrients from the blood. In such a situation, immediate medical intervention is crucial, as the individual can suffer irreversible damage within minutes without prompt action, typically involving CPR and defibrillation.

Other choices focus on various medical conditions but do not accurately define cardiac arrest. While restricted blood flow can contribute to various cardiac problems, it does not characterize cardiac arrest itself. Fainting is a temporary loss of consciousness that may occur for several reasons but is often not a direct result of the heart ceasing to function. Stopping breathing can occur in scenarios where the heart is still beating but is primarily a separate issue that requires different interventions. Understanding the specific term "cardiac arrest" is essential for recognizing the urgency and nature of the medical situation.