A greenhouse plant after resuscitation? The numbers give hope

Written by

Bart de Visser

More than 15 years of experience in AEDs & heart safety · AEDwijzer

Published on September 30, 2025

Many people hesitate to start CPR for fear that the victim will end up as a 'vegetable': dependent and with severe brain damage. This fear is understandable, but often unfounded. The figures show a much rosier picture.

Research shows that as many as 80 to 90 out of 100 people experience a good quality of life one year after their resuscitation. What's more: over 70% of people who worked before cardiac arrest are back at work fully within a year.

What really happens during a cardiac arrest?

When the heart stops, the brain immediately loses oxygen. This can cause damage within minutes. That's precisely why you are so important. By immediately starting chest compressions and deploying an AED device, you artificially maintain blood circulation.

Remember this: Brain damage does not occur due to resuscitation, but due to the lack of oxygen before help began. The faster you act, the greater the chance of a full recovery.

Facts and myths about brain damage

The term ‘vegetable’ suggests a grim future, but the reality in the 6-minute zone tells a different story:

• Every minute counts: Without help, the chance of survival decreases by 7 to 10% every minute.

• The power of the AED: If an AED is deployed within six minutes, the chance of survival can even triple.

• Quality of life: The majority of survivors gradually resume their hobbies, sports, and social life.

How can you help reduce the risk?

You can personally ensure that the risk of permanent damage remains as small as possible:

1. Learn CPR: Take a course so you know exactly what the CPR action plan entails.

2. Ensure an AED is nearby: The shorter the distance to a defibrillator, the faster the heart can be reset.

3. Become a civilian first responder: Register with HartslagNu and be the lifesaver in your own neighborhood.

Give someone their future back

Not acting is the only real risk. With the right tools at hand, you give a victim the greatest chance of a healthy life.

• Provide a safe net: Do you want to purchase an AED for your neighborhood, company, or sports club? Use our AED Selection Tool to find the most user-friendly model.

• Buy an AED directly: View our range of professional AED devices.

• Always ready for use: An AED only saves lives if the AED battery and electrodes are in order. We take care of this management completely with our maintenance contracts.

• Practice builds confidence: Order a CPR manikin and AED trainer to practice with your colleagues or neighbors, so that fear gives way to decisive action.