The 2026 first aid guidelines have been updated to make first aid in the Netherlands even safer, clearer, and more consistent. They were developed by the Oranje Kruis, the Red Cross, the Dutch Resuscitation Council (NRR), and the NIBHV. The guidelines are revised every five years based on new scientific insights and practical experience.

These are the most important changes you need to know about:

Unconscious but breathing normally: not automatically placed in the recovery position

One important change is that a person who is unconscious but still breathing normally is no longer automatically placed in the recovery position. Instead, the emphasis is on keeping the airway clear using the head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver.

The recovery position is still used only in specific situations—for example, when someone is about to vomit or is at increased risk, when there are multiple victims, or when you, as a first responder, need to move away from the victim to call for help. This means that the recovery position is still practiced during training. This change aligns with the updated 2025 CPR guidelines, which have been fully incorporated into the 2026 first aid guidelines.

Greater Focus on Mental First Aid

Mental first aid is taking on a much more prominent role in the guidelines. First responders must not only look for physical injuries, but also learn to better handle situations such as anxiety, panic, mental health crises, and suicidal behavior. Recognizing behavior that is misunderstood or confused is becoming increasingly important in this regard.

New Approach to Choking in Infants

The procedures for treating a choking infant have also been updated. Instead of the two-finger chest thrusts, the so-called two-thumb-circle technique (TDOT) is now used. This method was developed to provide more effective and safer care for young children.

When should you call emergency services?

There is now greater clarity on when to call 112, when to contact the GP on-call service, and when a regular appointment with your primary care physician is sufficient. The goal is to ensure that the right care is provided in the right place more quickly, without unnecessary delays.

The Chain of Survival Response Refined

The Chain of Survival has been further refined and now places even greater emphasis on the importance of preparation, risk assessment, and acting quickly and correctly. This focus ensures that everyone knows better what to do in an emergency, even before something happens.

Want to know more?

Sign up soon for your emergency response or first aid refresher training to learn how to apply the new guidelines in practice. Follow us on our social media channels for tips and more. If you have any questions or need advice, feel free to contact us!