[A review of the European Resuscitation Council (ERC) 2025 first aid and adult basic life support practical guidelines: implications for Hungarian practice].

Authors

József Betlehem, Henrietta Bánfai-Csonka, Enikő Kovács, Bálint Bánfai

Published in

Orvosi hetilap. Volume 167. Issue 33. Pages 1294-1308. Aug 16, 2026. Epub Aug 16, 2026.

Abstract

The scientific approach to first aid has gained significant prominence in medical literature over recent decades. This process represents a paradigm shift: immediate care is no longer viewed merely as an altruistic "Good Samaritan" act, but as a discipline demanding the rigour of evidence-based medicine. Since global survival rates for various emergencies continue to show significant variance, it has become essential to establish a scientifically grounded framework for both laypeople and healthcare professionals. This review aims to present and analyze the latest 2025 European Resuscitation Council (ERC) guidelines for first aid and adult out-of-hospital basic life support (BLS). Particular emphasis is placed on the importance of aligning the initial steps taken by lay rescuers with the professional protocols of emergency medical service systems. These guidelines are based on the 2025 International Consensus on Science with Treatment Recommendations (CoSTR) developed by the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR). The ERC writing group conducted extensive literature synthesis, utilising published systematic reviews and scoping analyses. During the development of these recommendations, "Evidence to Decision" tables and narrative expert opinions ensured that each guideline is underpinned by high-level scientific evidence. The evidence base and level of evidence for the guidelines vary by topic; in certain areas, good practice statements based on expert consensus are also included. Our manuscript focuses on a narrative summary and the possibilities for domestic adaptation, while the systematic synthesis of evidence was part of the ERC/ILCOR methodology. The updated recommendations advocate for a unified primary approach based on the ABCDE assessment framework for all critical conditions, including internal medicine pathologies, traumatic injuries, and environmental emergencies. A defining element is the improvement of survival rates for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, which can be achieved through the integration of technological innovations and the promotion of bystander education. Standardized professional protocols and practice-oriented education are the cornerstones of effective emergency care. To enhance the efficiency of the chain of survival, it is vital to ensure a seamless transition between lay first aid and interventions performed by emergency professionals, as supported by the latest international scientific consensus. Orv Hetil. 2026; 167(33): 1294-1308.

PMID:
42604549
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 17 Aug 2026.

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