What does the nurse know is the major objective of performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in a cardiac arrest patient?

A. To provide breathing until an automated external defibrillator (AED) arrives: While providing ventilation is part of CPR, the primary goal is not simply to bridge time until defibrillation. Ventilation alone does not ensure adequate perfusion of vital organs in cardiac arrest. B. To provide oxygen to the brain, heart and other vital organs: The major objective of CPR is to maintain circulation and oxygen delivery to vital organs, particularly the brain and heart, until spontaneous cardiac activity can be restored. Effective chest compressions sustain perfusion, minimizing ischemic injury and improving the chance of survival with intact neurologic function. C. To restore cardiac output to normal: CPR does not immediately restore normal cardiac output; it provides partial perfusion to vital organs. Full restoration of cardiac output requires successful return of spontaneous circulation through defibrillation, medications, and advanced cardiac life support interventions. D. To prevent brain death within 2 minutes of anoxia: Although timely CPR reduces the risk of brain injury, brain death prevention is an indirect outcome rather than the immediate objective. The critical focus is maintaining oxygenated blood flow to vital tissues until cardiac function can resume.