CPR (basic resuscitation) instructions
Machine translation from Dutch, not yet checked by a clinician.
If someone is not breathing and has no pulse, start chest compressions immediately. Every minute counts.
What to do
• Check responsiveness: tap the shoulders, speak to them
• Check breathing: look, listen and feel for no more than 10 seconds
• Call 112, or have someone else call while you begin
• Place your hands in the middle of the chest and give 30 hard fast compressions (100 to 120 per minute)
• Give 2 rescue breaths (mouth to mouth) after every 30 compressions — skip this if you cannot or do not want to
• Continue until help arrives or the person starts to move
Do not do
• Do not stop CPR until professional help takes over
• Do not worry about breaking ribs — CPR is necessary
Warning signs
• The person is not breathing
• No consciousness and no pulse
Get help if
• Always: call 112 before or during CPR
• Use an AED (automated defibrillator) if one is available
Why this matters
Every minute without CPR lowers the chance of survival by 10%. Start immediately — do not wait for professionals.
Source: European Resuscitation Council 2021 · reviewed 2025-01-01