Which description best captures the chain of survival for cardiac arrest, including non-shockable rhythms like asystole?

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The main idea is the chain of survival for cardiac arrest, which hinges on prompt, sequential actions to maintain perfusion and get advanced care on board. Start with recognizing the emergency and calling for help, then provide high-quality CPR to keep blood flowing and oxygen reaching the brain and heart. If the rhythm is one that can be shocked, quick defibrillation offers the best chance to restart a perfusing rhythm. When the rhythm is not shockable—such as asystole or pulseless electrical activity—defibrillation isn’t indicated, so the focus remains on ongoing CPR and addressing reversible causes until advanced life support arrives. Advanced life support then brings airway management, medications, and definitive care. This description captures both the universal steps and the distinction that defibrillation is used only for shockable rhythms, not all rhythms.