What is the first step in the chain of survival in a medical emergency?

The first step in the chain of survival in a medical emergency is to call for emergency help. This action is crucial as it ensures that professional medical assistance is on the way while you are providing support to the patient. Immediate access to medical emergency services can significantly improve outcomes, as trained professionals can provide advanced care that bystanders are not equipped to deliver.

Calling for emergency help alerts the necessary authorities and provides critical information about the situation, ensuring a quicker response. Once this call is made, other actions, such as checking for responsiveness or starting CPR, can be initiated. It is essential to recognize the importance of having help on the way while ensuring the patient's immediate needs are also addressed.