The first step of the in-hospital pediatric cardiac chain of survival is prevention. Prevention focuses on safety measures to reduce the likelihood of pediatric cardiac arrest, which is often caused by asphyxia due to breathing problems rather than primary heart issues. This includes creating safe environments, using safety equipment, and active supervision to prevent incidents like drowning and choking. Prevention is considered the most important initial link in the pediatric chain of survival to maximize the chances of saving a child's life.