A greenhouse plant after resuscitation? The numbers give hope

Many people fear that someone will end up as a "house plant" after resuscitation: dependent, with serious brain damage. This fear can make bystanders hesitant to intervene in the event of a cardiac arrest. Fortunately, the figures paint a much more positive picture. Research shows that 80 to 90 out of 100 people have a good quality of life a year after resuscitation. Furthermore, more than 70 percent of people who were working before the cardiac arrest return to their jobs within a year.

The majority of people who survive cardiac arrest return to a full life. The fear of a "potato after resuscitation" often proves greater than reality. Quick action with resuscitation and the use of an AED significantly increases the chance of recovery.

What happens during cardiac arrest?

In cardiac arrest, the heart stops pumping, and oxygen no longer reaches the brain. This can cause brain damage within minutes. The longer the circulation is interrupted, the greater the risk of permanent damage.

That's why it's so important that bystanders immediately begin CPR and use an AED. This artificially maintains blood flow and gives the victim the best chance of recovery.

Potted plant after resuscitation: facts and myths

The term "greenhouse plant" after resuscitation suggests that survivors often suffer permanent, severe brain damage. The reality is different. The risk of brain damage after cardiac arrest is primarily related to the time until resuscitation.

• Starting resuscitation within a few minutes increases the chance of a full recovery.

• Every minute without resuscitation reduces the chance of survival by 7 to 10 percent.

• If an AED is used within six minutes, the chance of survival can even triple.

The damage is therefore not caused by the resuscitation itself, but by the lack of oxygen.

What do the figures say about brain damage after resuscitation?

The majority of people who survive cardiac arrest are able to return to a normal life over time. Many people resume their daily activities and even return to work. Serious and permanent brain damage is much less common than is often thought.

How do you reduce the risk after cardiac arrest?

Everyone can help reduce the risk of brain damage after cardiac arrest:

1. Take a CPR course and learn how to act immediately.

2. Become a citizen responder and receive alerts when a resuscitation is taking place in your area.

3. Provide AEDs in the area so that a device is always available within minutes.

Conclusion: resuscitation actually increases the chance of recovery

The fear that someone will become a vegetable after resuscitation is understandable, but usually unfounded. In reality, the majority of survivors largely regain their lives. The real risk lies in not acting or acting too late.

By immediately starting resuscitation and using an AED, you increase the chance of survival and a future with quality of life.