Chain of survival.

We use the chain of survival to educate people about their vital role in helping SCA victims. Bystanders can help save lives by activating the links of the chain. Learn more about how to recognise a SCA.

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Chain of Survival

The chain of survival is a series of events that must occur in rapid succession to maximise the chance of survival after sudden cardiac arrest. We use the chain of survival to educate people about their vital role in helping SCA victims. Bystanders can help save lives by activating the links of the chain.

Four steps to save a life

Sudden cardiac arrest is an emergency situation for which emergency services often do not arrive in time. Bystanders are of great importance when it comes to activating the first four links of the chain:

1. Recognise SCA

2. Call 112

3. Start CPR

4. Use AED

1. Recognize sudden cardiac arrest

Immediate recognition of sudden cardiac arrest is crucial for saving a life. With every minute that passes, the survival rate drops by 10%.

But how do you recognise that someone is suffering a sudden cardiac arrest? If someone unexpectedly collapses (or has already collapsed and is lying on the floor), is unresponsive and not breathing normally, that person is likely experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. This person needs immediate care, as every second counts.

2. Call 112

In the event of an emergency, immediately call the emergency number 112 to get help. Make sure to follow the dispatcher's instructions.

3. Start CPR

Start Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) as soon as possible. 

Place your hands on the centre of the chest and push hard and fast with an average of 100-120 compressions per minute. Keep repeating 30 compressions and then 2 rescue breaths.

4. Use AED

Use an automated exterrnal defibrillator (AED) to restart the heart. An AED can deliver a shock to the heart to restore its rhythm. AEDs are often placed in public places such as malls, city centres, offices, grocery stores and airports.

The first six minutes:
every second counts

The survival chance drops by 10% with every minute that passes. After six minutes, untreated cardiac arrest causes permanent damage.

For this reason, immediate recognition and care after collapse are absolutely vital. As it can take on average 10 minutes for an ambulance to arrive, bystanders can play a crucial role in saving a person's life.

Knowing how to recognise sudden cardiac arrest can genuinely make the difference between life and death.

Always remember:

Call for help

The dispatcher will help you with the next steps.

Start CPR

30 chest compressions & 2 rescue breathes.

Use an AED

Follow the steps as instructed by the AED.

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