Definition of Chain of Survival

Chain of Survival

The Chain of Survival is the American Heart Association's framework describing the sequence of time-sensitive actions that give a cardiac arrest victim the best chance of survival. Each link depends on the one before it, and a delay or weakness in any link reduces the overall likelihood of a good outcome.

For out-of-hospital arrest the links are: immediate recognition of cardiac arrest and activation of emergency services, early high-quality CPR, rapid defibrillation with an AED, advanced resuscitation by emergency medical providers, post-cardiac-arrest care, and recovery. The concept underscores why bystander CPR and quick access to an AED matter so much — the first links are often performed by ordinary people, not medical professionals.

CPR Certification Labs provides hands-on, American Heart Association–aligned CPR, BLS, ACLS, and PALS certification training to help providers master these life-saving skills.

Medical Definition & Meaning

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What the AHA CPR Certification Course Includes

Comprehensive CPR Training for Adults, Children, and Infants

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Proper Use of AED Devices for All Age Groups

Understand how to safely and effectively operate an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for adults, children, and infants.

Airway Obstruction Relief and Heimlich Maneuver

Learn how to perform the Heimlich maneuver and clear airway obstructions caused by choking in both adults and infants.

Team-Based Multi-Rescuer CPR Techniques

Gain experience working as part of a team when more than one rescuer is available during an emergency.

Official American Heart Association CPR E-Card

Receive your AHA CPR Certification E-Card on the same day you complete the class and pass the exam.

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