INITIAL ACTIONS ON SCENE - Chain of survival
The chain of survival is a sequence of four events that must occur quickly to optimise a patient's chance of surviving a heart attack. Early defibrillation is a major link in the chain.
Early access	It is crucial that help is sought immediately following a cardiac arrest by phoning 999
Early CPR	CPR provides enough circulation to temporarily keep small amounts of oxygenated blood circulating through vital organs. This keeps the heart and brain viable until the AED arrives.
Early defibrillation	The purpose of early defibrillation is to re-establish a normal heart rhythm. Scientific research has shown that early defibrillation greatly increases the chance of survival for someone in cardiac arrest
Early ACLS	Early advanced cardiac life support is the treatment provided by the paramedics when they arrive.
In a first responder situation, we arrive on scene and are responsible for the second and third links.
Back to Reference page