III: ADULT CHAIN OF SURVIVAL

First Link: Early Recognition and Call for Emergency Assistance

The first link, early recognition of cardiac arrest and the prompt activation of the emergency response protocol, is absolutely
essential. When an out-of-hospital cardiac emergency occurs, dial 911 immediately. If the incident should occur on a job site or in a
professional setting, the internal alert system should also be triggered, which will improve the odds obtaining of skilled, on-site
assistance and equipment as soon as possible.

If someone reports experiencing pain or discomfort in the chest, jaw, neck or back, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, shortness of
breath, or discomfort in the arm or shoulder, call 911. If an individual is unresponsive and is not breathing, call 911.

If possible, send someone to retrieve the nearest automated external defibrillator (AED).

What’s the Difference Between a Heart Attack and Sudden Cardiac Arrest? Well, in short, a heart attack is caused by a blockage in
a vein or artery and SCA is caused by an electrical malfunction in the heart. Cardiac arrest may be caused by a heart attack,
SCA, drowning, electrocution, or an obstructed airway. To make matters even more confusing, symptoms of a heart attack may
vary and can be different for men than for women.
Don’t hesitate to call 911! It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Second Link: Prompt CPR with Chest Compressions

The second link dictates that CPR should commence immediately after a cardiac arrest has occurred. If you do not know how to
perform CPR, a 911 operator will talk you through the procedure. If you are not trained in CPR, use hands-only CPR by pushing
hard and fast on the center of the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. The compression depth for adults should
be at least two inches and the chest should recoil completely between compressions.

Anyone can perform CPR, and if possible it should be done without interruption until skilled emergency medical responders
arrive. Remember, any assistance is better than no assistance at all.

Third Link: Rapid Defibrillation

As soon as an AED becomes available, the rescuer should place the device next to the victim. Simply turn it on and follow the
visual and audio prompts. If a shock is advised, stand clear and make sure no one is in contact with the patient, then administer
the shock.

Fourth Link: Basic and Advanced Care

The fourth link, basic and advanced emergency medical services, refers to the rapid response of highly trained and equipped
EMS personnel who can respond to the patient, administer medications, and offer advanced respiration procedures and
interventions as needed. This step is often dependent upon the very first link in the chain: early recognition and call for
emergency assistance!

Fifth Link: Advanced Life Support and Post Cardiac Arrest Care
The fifth and final link, Advanced Life Support and Post Cardiac Arrest Care, is best left to medical professionals. It may involve a
multidisciplinary care team composed of cardiologists, physical therapists, and dieticians.