-
Step 1
Understand the four links of the chain of cardiac survival. They are access, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), defibrillation and advanced care. These steps must be performed in this order as quickly as possible and are only as effective as the weakest link in the chain.
-
Step 2
Perform early access by calling your emergency medical service immediately. This is usually 911 in the United States, but your local emergency number may be different.
-
Step 3
Begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation as soon as the patient collapses. Ideally, this would be done at the same time as the previous step if there is more than one bystander present. CPR can keep the heart beating for another 10 to 12 minutes if properly performed.
-
Step 4
Use a defibrillator. Availability of a defibrillator outside of a hospital setting or emergency medical service personnel is limited, but they may be found in public locations such as government centers, health clubs and schools.
-
Step 5
Provide advanced care. Advanced cardiac life support is normally performed first by paramedics or hospital staff as it requires extensive medical knowledge.
