What is the recommended time frame to start CPR after a victim has been lowered to the ground?

Starting CPR within less than four minutes of a victim being lowered to the ground is crucial because the chances of survival decrease significantly with each passing minute following cardiac arrest. The heart and brain are particularly sensitive to the lack of oxygen, and rapid intervention is essential to improve outcomes in these emergencies. The American Heart Association emphasizes the importance of initiating CPR as quickly as possible to maintain blood circulation to vital organs, which can keep the victim alive until emergency medical services arrive.

While it's important to assess the situation before starting CPR, the primary focus should always be on beginning the procedure promptly when a victim is unresponsive and not breathing normally. This timeframe ensures that vital organs receive some oxygenated blood, thereby enhancing the likelihood of a successful resuscitation. Other options that suggest delays or conditional responses either misinterpret the urgency of the situation or introduce unnecessary hesitation, which could result in a worse outcome for the victim.