[Preclinical resuscitation].

Resuscitation outside the hospital setting is a topic of increasing interest and discussion. A satisfactory neurologic outcome after acute cardiac arrest depends on immediate basic and the advanced cardiac life support (BCLS + ACLS). To achieve better results in Switzerland it is necessary to promote resuscitation performed by the layman (BCLS) and improve the content and structure of emergency calls and prehospital first aid. Since a satisfactory neurologic outcome depends on an immediate start to basic resuscitation, general information and teaching to the public must be promoted. To secure rapid assistance there should be one single phone number (e.g. 144) for emergency calls throughout Switzerland. Professionalism in the workup of emergency calls and in first aid by specialized personnel produces good results not only in cardiac but also in trauma patients.