Out-of-hospital Chain of Survival

​The term Chain of Survival provides a useful metaphor for the elements of the ECC systems concept.

The 5 links in the adult out-of-hospital Chain of Survival are

• Recognition of cardiac arrest and activation of the emergency response system
• Early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with an emphasis on chest compressions
• Rapid defibrillation
• Basic and advanced emergency medical services 
• Advanced life support and post-cardiac arrest care
  
  

A strong Chain of Survival can improve chances of survival and recovery for victims of cardiac arrest.