Possible cardiac arrest requires immediate action. The core sequence is: check that the scene is safe and whether the person responds, call emergency services, follow the dispatcher, begin CPR if the person is not breathing normally and send someone for an AED when possible.

Emergency happening now? Call your local emergency number. Put the phone on speaker and follow the dispatcher’s instructions. This page is general preparation and does not replace professional instruction or a CPR course.

How do you recognise possible cardiac arrest?

Speak loudly and clearly to the person and gently shake their shoulders. If there is no response, the person is unconscious. Call emergency services immediately or ask someone else to call. The dispatcher will help you assess breathing and guide the next actions.

Dutch resuscitation guidelines instruct rescuers to use speakerphone and follow the emergency dispatcher. If the person is not breathing normally, start CPR.

What to do, step by step

1. Make sure the scene is safe and check for response

First check that you, bystanders and the person are not exposed to immediate danger. Speak to the person and gently shake their shoulders. No response means urgent help is required.

2. Call emergency services and use speakerphone

Explain that the person is unconscious and give the location as precisely as possible. Keep the phone nearby so both hands remain free. Follow the dispatcher, who will guide the breathing check and CPR.

3. Send a bystander for an AED

Ask a specific person to retrieve an AED. If you are alone, follow the dispatcher’s instructions. Do not leave the person to conduct a prolonged AED search on your own initiative.

4. Start chest compressions if breathing is not normal

Place your hands in the centre of the chest and give 30 chest compressions. Dutch adult guidelines specify a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute and a depth of 5 to 6 centimetres. If you are able and trained, alternate 30 compressions with 2 rescue breaths. Continue as directed by emergency dispatch.

5. Turn on the AED and follow it

When the AED arrives, switch it on and follow every spoken and visual instruction. Attach the pads as shown. Do not touch the person while the device analyses the rhythm, and make sure everyone stands clear if a shock is advised. Resume CPR immediately when instructed.

Can anyone use an AED?

In the Netherlands, the Red Cross explains that anyone may use an AED. The device analyses the heart rhythm and recommends a shock only when appropriate. Training is still strongly recommended because practice helps people act faster and with greater confidence. Local rules may differ outside the Netherlands.

Remember the core sequence

  1. Check safety and response.
  2. Call emergency services and use speakerphone.
  3. Follow the dispatcher and assess breathing.
  4. Start CPR when breathing is not normal.
  5. Send for an AED and follow the device’s instructions.

Sources: Dutch Resuscitation Council — 2025 guidelines, Netherlands Red Cross — CPR with and without an AED and Netherlands Red Cross — What is an AED?.