The systems of care (SOC) framework links the interacting and interdependent components of the resuscitation system.

Systems of Care Framework

To deliver quality healthcare, the SOC must involve a structure that includes people, the equipment they would use, and their education or training in resuscitation. There is a defined process to guide the SOC that includes policies, protocols, and procedures. 

This combination of structure and process produces a system that creates programs, organizations, and the culture of the healthcare institution and the local community. A successful system results in optimal outcomes reflected in quality healthcare delivery that ensures the patient’s safety, survival, and satisfaction. 

This graphic depicts how the Systems of Care interact to provide the delivery of high-quality patient care. 

This ACLS guide concentrates on two SOCs: the in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) and the out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). The following figures depict the system-specific chains of survival for IHCA and OHCA. The chain metaphor is used because in any resuscitation scenario the chain is only as strong as its weakest link.

Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Adult Chain of Survival

In-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Adult Chain of Survival