The golden minutes: why early resuscitation makes the difference

When the heart stops suddenly, oxygen stops reaching the brain, and brain cells begin to suffer damage within minutes. Every minute without resuscitation noticeably lowers the chance of survival — which makes what the nearest bystander does before the ambulance arrives the single most important factor.

Most cardiac arrests happen outside hospital — at home, at work, or in public places. That is where the chain of survival matters:

• Recognize the emergency quickly and call EMS on 997 or the unified emergency number 911.
• Start chest compressions immediately.
• Use an AED as soon as possible.
• Hand over to the advanced medical team.

The good news: anyone can learn these skills in a single training day. Hands-on practice on manikins builds the confidence you need to act instead of freeze.