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Cardiac Chain of Survival

Cardiac Chain of Survival

The Cardiac Chain of Survival is a concept developed by the American Heart Association (AHA) to describe the critical steps that must be taken to improve the chances of survival for someone experiencing a cardiac arrest. The five steps of the Cardiac Chain of Survival are early access, early CPR, early defibrillation, early advanced care, and integrated post-cardiac arrest care.

1. Early Access: Early access is the first step in the Cardiac Chain of Survival and is the process of quickly recognizing the signs of a cardiac arrest and calling 911. This step is critical, as it initiates the chain of events that can lead to a successful outcome.

2. Early CPR: Early CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is the second step in the Cardiac Chain of Survival. This step involves providing chest compressions and rescue breaths to a person in cardiac arrest to help circulate oxygenated blood to the brain and other vital organs.

3. Early Defibrillation: Early defibrillation is the third step in the Cardiac Chain of Survival. This step involves providing an electric shock to the heart to help restore a normal rhythm.

4. Early Advanced Care: Early advanced care is the fourth step in the Cardiac Chain of Survival. This step involves providing advanced medical treatment, such as medications, intravenous fluids, and other interventions.

5. Integrated Post-Cardiac Arrest Care: Integrated post-cardiac arrest care is the fifth step in the Cardiac Chain of Survival. This step involves providing comprehensive care for the patient after they have been resuscitated, including monitoring for complications, providing supportive care, and rehabilitating the patient.

The goal of the Cardiac Chain of Survival is to increase the chances of survival for someone who is experiencing cardiac arrest. By following the five steps of the Cardiac Chain of Survival, healthcare providers can help ensure that patients receive the care they need promptly, which can lead to a successful recovery.

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References

  • American Heart Association. (2020). Cardiac Chain of Survival. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiac-arrest/about-cardiac-arrest/chain-of-survival
  • Mayo Clinic. (2020). Cardiac Arrest: Definition. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cardiac-arrest/symptoms-causes/syc-20350639