BHV-Weesp
In the Netherlands, hundreds of people suffer a cardiac arrest outside hospital every week. Whether someone survives depends above all on what happens in the first few minutes. In this article we explain why speed is so crucial — and what you can do.
The first six minutes are decisive
In cardiac arrest the circulation stops and the brain no longer receives oxygen. With every minute that passes without CPR, the chance of survival falls by around 7 to 10%. After about six minutes permanent brain damage sets in. An ambulance often takes eight to ten minutes to arrive — so help from bystanders is literally vital.
CPR and AED: stronger together
Starting chest compressions immediately keeps the circulation going. An AED (automated external defibrillator) can also restore the heart rhythm with a targeted shock. The combination of fast CPR and an AED raises the chance of survival considerably. An AED is also designed so that a lay person can use it safely: the device gives spoken instructions.
- Always call 112 first
- Start chest compressions immediately
- Have someone fetch an AED
- Follow the AED's instructions
“Anyone willing to help can save a life. Doing nothing is the only wrong choice.”
Learn CPR at BHV-Weesp
You learn CPR best by doing it. On our CPR and AED course you practise until the actions come naturally. We train companies, associations and private individuals in Weesp and the surrounding area, in line with the guidelines of the Dutch Resuscitation Council.
Want to learn CPR? Get in touch with BHV-Weesp — we are happy to think along with you and work in Weesp and the surrounding area.