Editors comment: Strengthening the links

How many of us have considered the issue of patient safety in the context of resuscitation? For instance, the intervals of hands off time during a resuscitation attempt (pre-, peri- and post shock pauses) may not be recorded, but these have a serious impact on morbidity and mortality. Any interruption in chest compressions greater than 10 seconds compromises myocardial function and thus should be considered an adverse event.