What does the "Chain of Survival" in lifesaving refer to?

The "Chain of Survival" in lifesaving refers to a sequence of critical actions that enhance the chances of survival for someone experiencing a cardiac emergency. This sequence emphasizes the importance of recognizing an emergency situation promptly, which triggers the activation of emergency medical services (EMS). Following this, performing Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is crucial, particularly for maintaining blood circulation until professional help arrives. The use of a defibrillator after initiating CPR can restore normal heart rhythm and is also a vital step in the chain.

Each link in this chain is designed to maximize the effectiveness of immediate response to life-threatening situations, such as cardiac arrest. The focus on recognizing the emergency and activating the appropriate services first is critical, as delays in these steps can significantly reduce the chance of survival.

Other actions, such as pulling victims from water, administering medication, or conducting searches, are important in specific contexts but do not encapsulate the specific framework of the "Chain of Survival," which is strictly oriented towards emergency response for life-threatening conditions.