The Chain of Survival

Food Chain.  Chains That Bind.  Supply Chains.  Chain Breaker

We have all heard of these different types of phrases including the word chain.  Perhaps the most important chain related to life saving is the Chain of Survival.  We have all heard of the Chain of Survival, but what is it exactly?

The Chain of Survival includes steps to improve the chance of a victim’s survival of a SCA.  It begins with bystanders who can help the victim’s heart keep blood flowing to the brain until a healthy rhythm can be established.  The Chain of Survival consists of the following steps:

  • Early recognition and activation of the emergency response system- If a person is unresponsive and not breathing, call 911 immediately
  • Rapid Defibrillation- Place an AED on the victim and follow the steps according to the audio and visual instructions
  • Advanced Life Support- EMS professionals provide specific care during transport to hospital
  • Post-Cardiac Arrest Care- Hospital professionals provide comprehensive care for the victim
  • Recovery- Care Team includes additional treatments, rehabilitation, and psychological support for survivors and their families

While it’s true that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, take steps now to ensure that you are prepared and ready to respond when faced with an emergent situation.  If in doubt, give AED365 a call and we can help set you on a course to success!

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

I have an AED – what do I need to know?

co-authored by Marcy Burnham, RN – AED365 Leader, and Brady B. McLaughlin, MS, NREMT – CEO and AED Expert

This question is more common than you may think.  Whether you just purchased an AED or have been an AED owner for years, many people have questions about AEDs, or automated external defibrillators.

AEDs are vital to saving lives in the event of Sudden Cardiac Arrest, or SCA.  Along with having an AED readily available, other elements of emergency response are necessary to complete each link of the Chain of Survival:
  • Early recognition and activation of emergency response (9-1-1)
  • High-quality CPR (hands-on)
  • Rapid defibrillation (AED)
  • Advanced care and transportation (EMS transport via ambulance)
  • Coordinated definitive care (hospital and cardiac ICU) 
  • Recovery
To strengthen the Chain, key initiatives include:
  • CPR AED training
  • AED inspections and checks
  • AED maintenance
  • EMS agency registration (if required)
  • Medical direction (if required)
AED ownership, adequate training, and a properly maintained AED all work hand in hand to save lives. 

Make sure your AED is easily accessible and ADA-complaint with the cabinet mounted no higher than 48 inches above the floor.

Ensure the AED is easily identifiable with AED signage.

Make sure you meet all applicable local, state, and federal laws for your AED and facility.
 
AED365 has proven to be an easy, efficient way to ensure your AED is compliant and ready to rescue.  Our sole focus is keeping your AED program alive.  With over 30 powerful features, AED365 is designed with the end-user in mind, making the inspection process easy to accomplish in less than 60 seconds.  Using an AED to save lives isn’t hard; managing your AED program shouldn’t be either.