The Chain of Survival is the series of actions necessary to help save the life of someone who has had a cardiac arrest. The four actions in the Chain are: early recognition of the problem and calling 999; early CPR; early defibrillation; and effective post-resuscitation care. All four parts of the Chain are crucial in helping to save a life.
Recognising that someone is having a cardiac arrest and calling 999 is vital to ensure that the emergency services arrive as soon as possible. Performing CPR keeps the blood flowing to vital organs such as the brain and increases the chances of the heart remaining in a ‘shockable’ rhythm until a defibrillator is used. In some cases using a defibrillator will shock the heart to restore a normal rhythm.
Effective post resuscitation care is provided by the emergency medical services and hospital, and depends on the cause of the cardiac arrest. This policy statement focuses on the first three elements of the Chain of Survival.
The Fylde Community Responder Team respond to cardiac arrests to reduce the time between the arrest and CPR and/or defibrillation taking place, increasing the chance of a positive outcome. They also respond to a wide range of other incidents to provide care and support whilst awaiting the arrival of an ambulance.
