You find yourself dining in your favorite restaurant; suddenly, the person next to you collapses. You want to do something to help the person, but he won’t respond. What can you do to help?
Dial 9-1-1 or contact the local emergency service in your area, and ask for help. This is the life-saving first step in the Chain of Survival. If you have never attended a first aid training course, you might be wondering what this ‘chain thing’ is and how it can help save a life.
What is the Chain of Survival?
The Chain of Survival is a four-step intervention process aimed at increasing the survival rate of victims of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) – a condition wherein the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. Every link in the chain is crucial in improving the prognosis and recovery of the casualty. If followed properly and quickly, the victim has high chances of surviving from a cardiac arrest.
SCA is a fatal condition that often leads to death if not treated immediately. At present, SCA is one of leading causes of deaths in most countries, claiming over 350,000 lives each year in the US. According to the American Heart Association, a person who suffers SCA outside the hospital has less than 8% survival rate. However, efficient and prompt initiation of the Chain of Survival can double or triple the victim’s survival rate. It is estimated that around 40,000 lives could be saved each year if only the Chain is followed.
Take note that, four out of five cases of SCA occur at home. Thus, by knowing the basic principles of the ‘Chain’, you are actually preparing to save the lives of your loved ones.
Links of the Chain of Survival
Here are the four steps you should follow to help victims of SCA.
First Link: Early Access/Early Recognition and Call for Help
If you notice someone becomes unconscious, stops breathing or displays abnormal breathing, you should contact the emergency services right away. Immediate recognition of cardiac arrest and activation of the local emergency response system is crucial for the survival of the casualty. In addition, other serious conditions that can precipitate a cardiac arrest must also be reported promptly.
Second Link: Early CPR
Once cardiac arrest is recognized and the patient has stopped breathing, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be initiated immediately. Laypersons or bystanders can perform CPR, although someone who has completed first aid/CPR training would be ideal. Continuous, uninterrupted CPR is recommended until emergency services arrive.
Third Link: Early Defibrillation
Automated External Defibrillators (AED) or simply defibrillators are devices that deliver calculated electrical shocks to the heart aimed to correct abnormal electrical activity. The electrical shock delivered by the AED attempts to “restart” the heart. The earlier the defibrillation is, the higher the chances of survival becomes.
Fourth Link: Post Resuscitation Care
Proper care in the emergency department is crucial in the long term prognosis of the patient. Immediate access to post resuscitation care can help restore the quality of life of victims of SCA.