FINAL ACTIVITY # 2
Chain of Survival
1. WHAT: An acknowledged global process is the chain of survival. It refers to a set of
procedures that, when appropriately carried out, lower the fatality rate related to sudden cardiac
arrest. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the 5 links in the adult out-ofhospital Chain of Survival are:
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Recognition of cardiac arrest and activation of the emergency response system
Early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with an emphasis on chest compressions
Rapid defibrillation
Basic and advanced emergency medical services
Advanced life support and post-cardiac arrest care
2. WHY: Why is the chain of survival important? Simply said, being aware of and
comprehending the five essential decrease the mortality rate. The chain of survival lays out how
someone can take immediate action in quick, easy-to-remember steps.
3. WHEN: Chain of survival is used when the victim has experienced a cardiac arrest, based on
unresponsiveness and lack of normal breathing, immediate activation of an emergency response
system (e.g., call 911), and get and AED/defibrillator.
4. WHERE: The chain of survival is needed when treating life-threatening emergencies,
including heart attack, cardiac arrest, stroke, and foreign body airway obstruction.
5. HOW: The chain of survival works with the links within the chain of survival, this includes:
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Early Access to the emergency response system.
Early CPR to support circulation to the heart and brain until normal heart activity is
restored
Early Defibrillation to treat cardiac arrest caused by Ventricular Fibrillation; and
Early Advanced Care by EMS and hospital personnel
References:
https://www.sca-aware.org/about-sudden-cardiac-arrest/the-chain-of-survival
https://www.defibtech.com/news/latest/chain-of-survival/
https://www.zoll.com/uk/resources/chain-of-survival