Final answer:
Standing orders typically require you to perform certain interventions such as initiating CPR immediately when you find someone in cardiac arrest before contacting medical control. High-quality chest compressions and using an AED are critical in the first few minutes for the potential recovery of the patient.
Step-by-step explanation:
When you arrive at a convenience store and find a middle-aged male in cardiac arrest, protocols that provide for standing orders mean you should perform certain interventions prior to contacting medical control. This typically includes starting cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately. Quick initiation of CPR can maintain the flow of blood until the heart resumes beating or advanced care is available. Automated external defibrillators (AEDs), often found in public places, can provide additional life-saving measures with verbal instructions for use during these critical first minutes. The emphasis is on performing high-quality chest compressions, at a rate of 100 compressions per minute, which correlates with the beat of the song “Staying Alive.” Proper positioning of the hands on the sternum to perform CPR is crucial, positioned between the lines at T4 and T9. It's important to continue CPR until the patient regains a pulse or is declared dead by a healthcare professional.