First Aid Newsletter

DRK, Johanniter, Malteser, ASB and DLRG agree at RETTmobil 2026 on joint demand for adequate, permanent financing and strengthening of civil and disaster protection as an overall system. The organizations complain about growing burdens from expensive fuel costs and demand mineral oil tax exemption for rescue diesel. This signals significant structural and financial challenges in the German rescue service.

Community intensively discusses discrepancies between current DGUV/BG teaching practice and international ERC guidelines, particularly regarding recovery position in heart attack/stroke, tourniquet use and helmet removal by laypersons. Multiple threads (R17-R23) indicate uncertainty about whether first aid courses are still current and whether standards need to be improved.

Multiple viral stories show successful real-life CPR/AED interventions while simultaneously uncovering training gaps – especially in realistic training equipment (e.g. female torso manikins). At the same time, modern AED technologies are expanding (Live Registries, Connected Cabinets), indicating growing professionalization and standardization.

Nationwide digitalization packages for rescue services are being developed: standardized data transmission between ambulances and hospitals, live hospital resource displays and structured handover procedures as new standard. Reform emphasizes patient safety and reduces information loss between rescue and hospital.

Mass exodus at Malteser Halle following dismissal of two managers reveals internal conflicts and loss of trust. While Malteser assures performance guarantees in disaster protection, it remains unclear whether other organizations (DRK, ASB) must take over tasks. Symptom of strained personnel situation in critical infrastructure.