The chain of survival

The Chain of Survival is a series of actions to be taken as soon as possible in the event of cardiac arrest.

1 – Rapid emergency recognition and call 112/118
2 – Immediate start of chest compressions and ventilations if possible
3 – Early defibrillation
4 – Advanced rescue intervention and transport to hospital

Every minute counts: organ damage becomes irreversible in 5-10 minutes without intervention. Anyone close to the victim can start this “relay for life,” performing the first vital actions while waiting for help. The effectiveness of the Chain depends on the readiness of each of its links.

every minute counts

The effectiveness of CPR increases with immediate intervention

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and early defibrillation are essential for survival in cardiac arrest. Initiated within the first few minutes, these actions can double or triple the chances of survival and significantly reduce potential organ damage. Defibrillation within 3–5 minutes of cardiac arrest can save up to 70% of victims with shockable cardiac rhythms.

Download the AICARM poster with CPR maneuvers

Immediate intervention by bystanders is more effective than professional rescuers who require time to arrive. The first two links in the chain of survival—rapid recognition and immediate CPR—are crucial. The use of an AED further increases the chances of survival. Learning these techniques is essential: prompt intervention can save a life and promote a better recovery for survivors.

AICARM's commitment to CPR

Cardiac arrest is a dramatic event that could happen to anyone but that patients with Cardiomyopathy particularly fear.

AICARM periodically organizes CPR courses for family members so that participants can learn how to save a life, even that of a family member.

The AICARM Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation course begins with a general theoretical introduction and continues with an instructor demonstrating CPR maneuvers and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). Participants are then encouraged to practice the resuscitation maneuvers and use of the defibrillator several times on a mannequin.

Raising awareness among young people about CPR

In full coherence with its mission to train, educate and raise awareness in the entire community on issues related to cardiomyopathies, AICARM has allocated specific resources to the provision of courses on CPR techniques and use of the defibrillator, both for patients' families and for schools.

A pilot project to raise awareness among young people about CPR practices in the Milan area has recently been launched, which, thanks to a dedicated donation, will allow training of approximately 250 high school students in the 2024/2025 school year.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation

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