Number Of Chest Compressions Research Articles

Is There Any Difference in the Quality of CPR Depending on the Physical Fitness of Firefighters?

(1) Background: The purposes of this study were to develop a physical fitness evaluation program for new firefighters, to investigate whether there is a quality difference in performing CPR for cardiac arrest patients according to physical strength, and to provide basic data to improve CPR quality. (2) Methods: The subjects of this study were fire trainees who were appointed as firefighters for the first time in G province from 3 March 2021 to 25 June 2021. The age of the subjects was 25-29 years old, and their experience of working as a firefighter was less than three months. According to the purposes of the study, the researcher composed the Physical Fitness Evaluation Program, including the physical fitness evaluation method and steps, and requested a content expert group to modify and supplement the 'physical fitness assessment program'. The subjects were divided into four groups according to their levels of physical strength, and CPR was performed for 50 min in groups of two. A high-end Resuscitation Anne Simulator (Laeadal, Norway) mannequin was used to evaluate the quality of CPR. (3) Results: When comparing the difference in CPR quality, there were statistically significant differences in the number of chest compressions and compression depth, but all groups met the CPR guidelines. In the case of this study, it is thought that high-quality CPR could be performed because the subjects' average age was low and they continued to exercise to improve their physical strength for their role. (4) Conclusions: It was concluded that the fitness level of new firefighters confirmed by this study was sufficient for general high-quality CPR. In addition, for high-quality CPR, continuous management is required by developing a continuous CPR education and physical training program for all firefighters.

Interactive Teaching Aid Kit for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is an emergency procedure performed on a person experiencing cardiac arrest to manually preserve brain function until spontaneous breathing and blood circulation can be restored. If performed timely and properly, it can improve the survival rate of a person experiencing cardiac arrest. The promotion of CPR has always been an important task for countries around the world. Countries around the world often hold relevant study camps and seminars to improve the public’s awareness of CPR. On the basis of this rationale, this paper proposes an interactive teaching aid kit for CPR that uses a CPR manikin and tutoring software to facilitate CPR learning among trainees. The CPR manikin is equipped with sensors that determine whether the CPR steps are performed correctly. Data from the sensors are sent to the tutoring software through wireless transmission. The software provides video demonstrations and textual instructions concerning the standard CPR procedure. In this software, the interactive interface displays real-time information about the trainee’s CPR process, such as information on the CPR step being performed and the number of chest compression and breaths given. Thus, this teaching aid kit allows trainees to learn CPR without an instructor. This system may enable CPR to become a readily learnable skill for the general population.

The clinical effects of CPR meter on chest compression quality: a QI project

The clinical effects of CPR meter on chest compression quality: a QI project.
 Christopher Picard, Richard Drew, Domhnall O’Dochartaigh, Matthew J Douma, Candice Keddie, Colleen Norris.
 Background: High-quality chest compressions are the cornerstone of resuscitation. Training guidelines require CPR feedback, and pre-clinical data shows that feedback devices improve chest compression quality; but devices are not being used in many emergency departments, and their impact on clinical care is less well understood. Some services use defibrillator generated reports for quality improvement, but these measurements may be limited in scope and have not been rigorously compared to other tools.
 Methods: Laerdal CPRMeter 2 chest compression feedback devices were purchased using funds made available by a zone QI initiative. Initial training for implementation consisted of staff performing one minute of blinded chest compression using the feedback device, followed by one minute of chest compression unblinded. Staff were shown the raw percentage of chest compressions meeting target depth, release, and rate under both conditions as well as overall improvement. Following initial orientation, devices were incorporated into clinical care and all subsequent staff simulation and training. Clinically, use of the feedback device and completion or QI tracking forms was not mandated but was encouraged by drawing code participant names from completed forms for a free ACLS or PALS course. Data from all codes were automatically collected by the LifePak 20, data from any resuscitation using the Laerdal CPRmeter 2 were also automatically recorded when the device was used: these data were downloaded weekly. Completed questionnaire forms were submitted to the Clinical Educators and extracted as received.
 Evaluation Methods: Chest compression quality data was collected in two ways: first, using a Laerdal CPRMeter2, second, by downloading and analyzing cardiac arrest data from a LifePak20 defibrillator using CodeStatTM software. Device data were matched and synthesized by an emergency department CNE using Microsoft excel and IBM SPSS 26. Descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviations) are used to describe the data. Differences in chest compression quality and duration of resuscitations between resuscitation that did or did not use a feedback device or a backboard were compared using independent t-testing. Differences in chest compressions at the target depth, release, and rate between the numbers of staff involved were assessed using ANOVA. Agreement between devices (CPRMeter2 and LifePak) used during the resuscitations were evaluated using paired t-testing, Pearson correlations, and Bland-Altman plots. All tests were two-tailed with predetermined significance levels set at a=0.05.
 Results: Data collection occurred between August 2019 and December 2020. There were a total of 50 cardiac arrests included, 36 had questionnaire data returned, 36 had data collected from the CPR meter 2, 24 had data collected from the LifePak, and 10 had data collected using all three methods. The average duration of resuscitation (number of chest compressions) was 1079.56 (SD=858.25); there was no difference in the duration of resuscitation (number of chest compressions) between resuscitations using versus not using CPR feedback devices (p=0.673). Resuscitations utilizing chest compression feedback had a higher percentage of chest compressions at the target rate compared to resuscitations not using feedback (74.08% vs 42.18%, p=0.007). Resuscitations that utilized a backboard had a higher percentage of chest compressions at target depth (72.92% vs 48.73%, p=0.048). There were no differences noted in the duration of resuscitation attempt (p=0.167) or percentages of chest compressions at the target depth (p=0.181), release (p=0.538), or rate (p=0.656) between resuscitations with different sized teams (4-5, 6-7, 8-9, >10 staff involved). There was a strong positive correlation (r=0.771, p=0.005, n=11) between the two measurement methods and chest compression rates, and no statistically significant difference in measured scores (p=0.999), with 100% of values falling within the Bland-Altman confidence intervals of 36.72 and -36.72, n=11. Interpretation of the levels of agreement between these two device measures methods should be done cautiously however, given the small sample size and wide confidence intervals.
 Implications
 1) Incorporation of visual chest compression feedback and use of a backboard are fast andaffordable and significantly improved the percentage of chest compression at the target rateand depth.
 2) There was no correlation between the size of the resuscitation team and the percentage ofchest compressions at the target depth, release or rate; nor was the feedback device useassociated with the duration of the resuscitation attempt.
 3) The implications of improvement with the CPR meter suggests that areas or service not usingfeedback should consider implementing its use to achieve the target compression rate.
 4) Compared to LifePak feedback alone the CPRMeter2 will also allow services to target depthand release targets as well as rate.

Comparing audio- and video-delivered instructions in dispatcher-assisted cardiopulmonary resuscitation with drone-delivered automatic external defibrillator: a mixed methods simulation study.

This study compared first responders’ cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) performance when a dispatcher provides audio instructions only and when both audio and video instructions are given. In the simulation, an automatic external defibrillator (AED) was delivered via drone in response to a cardiac arrest occurring outside a hospital setting. Participants’ qualitative experiences were also explored.An exploratory sequential mixed methods design was used. AEDs were delivered to college students via drone with one group receiving both audio and video instructions and the other receiving audio-only instruction, and differences in CPR performance and accuracy were compared. After completion, focus group interview data were collected and analyzed. Video-based instruction was found to be more effective in the number of chest compressions (p < 0.01), chest compression rate (p < 0.01), and chest compression interruptions (p < 0.01). The accuracy of the video group for the chest compression region was high (p = 0.05). Participants’ experiences were divided into three categories: “unfamiliar but beneficial experience,” “met helper during a desperate and embarrassing situation,” and “diverse views on drone use.” Our results lay the groundwork for a development plan for providing emergency medical services using drones, as well as the preparation of guidelines for dispatchers on the provision of video instructions.

Comparison of different mechanical chest compression devices in the alpine rescue setting: a randomized triple crossover experiment

BackgroundCardiopulmonary resuscitation in mountain environment is challenging. Continuous chest compressions during transport or hoist rescue are almost impossible without mechanical chest compression devices. Current evidence is predominantly based on studies conducted by urbane ambulance service. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the feasibility of continuous mechanical chest compression during alpine terrestrial transport using three different devices.MethodsRandomized triple crossover prospective study in an alpine environment. Nineteen teams of the Austrian Mountain Rescue Service trained according to current ERC guidelines performed three runs each of a standardised alpine rescue-scenario, using three different devices for mechanical chest compression. Quality of CPR, hands-off-time and displacement of devices were measured.ResultsThe primary outcome of performed work (defined as number of chest compressions x compression depth) was 66,062 mm (2832) with Corpuls CPR, 65,877 mm (6163) with Physio-Control LUCAS 3 and 40,177 mm (4396) with Schiller Easy Pulse. The difference both between LUCAS 3 and Easy Pulse (Δ 25,700; 95% confidence interval 21,118 – 30,282) and between Corpuls CPR and Easy Pulse (Δ 25,885; 23,590 – 28,181) was significant. No relevant differences were found regarding secondary outcomes.ConclusionMechanical chest compression devices provide a viable option in the alpine setting. For two out of three devices (Corpuls CPR and LUCAS 3) we found adequate quality of CPR. Those devices also maintained a correct placement of the piston even during challenging terrestrial transport. Adequate hands-off-times and correct placement could be achieved even by less trained personnel.

Evaluation of a Multimodal Resuscitation Program and Comparison of Mouth-to-Mouth and Bag-Mask Ventilation by Relatives of Children With Chronic Diseases.

Children with chronic critical illness are at higher risk for cardiopulmonary arrests. Before chronically ill children are discharged from hospital, family members receive training in basic life support at many institutions. We evaluated whether a multimodal training program is able to teach adherence to current resuscitation guidelines and whether laypersons can be trained to perform both bag-mask ventilation and mouth-to-mouth ventilation equally effective in infants. Prospective observational study. Pediatric critical care unit of a tertiary referral center. Relatives of children with chronic illness prior to discharge from hospital. Multimodal emergency and cardiopulmonary resuscitation training program. Following participation in our cardiopulmonary resuscitation training program 56 participants performed 112 simulated cardiopulmonary resuscitations (56 with mouth-to-mouth ventilation, 56 with bag-mask ventilation). Nearly all participants checked for consciousness and breathing. Shouting for help and activation of the emergency response system was only performed in half of the cases. There was almost full adherence to the resuscitation guidelines regarding number of chest compressions, chest compression rate, compression depth, full chest recoil, and duration of interruption of chest compression for rescue breaths. The comparison of mouth-to-mouth ventilation and bag-mask ventilation revealed no significant differences regarding the rate of successful ventilation (mouth-to-mouth ventilation: 77.1% ± 39.6%, bag-mask ventilation: 80.4% ± 38.0%; p = 0.39) and the cardiopulmonary resuscitation performance. A standardized multimodal cardiopulmonary resuscitation training program for family members of chronically ill children is effective to teach good cardiopulmonary resuscitation performance and adherence to resuscitation guidelines. Laypersons could be successfully trained to equally perform mouth-to-mouth and bag-mask ventilation technique.

Is Mouth-to-mouth Ventilation Effective in Lifeguards?Comparing the Effects between 30:2 Algorithm Versus Hands-only. A Simulation Study

Aim: Compare which resuscitation (for cardiac arrest scenario) has a higher quality when first responders with a duty of care are deprived of material: a standard resuscitation algorithm or a hands-only one when performed by lifeguards, who have had extensive training on mouth-to-mouth ventilation. Besides, a more specific objective was the analysis of the characteristics of these mouth-to-mouth ventilation. Methods: We conducted a prospective quasi-experimental crossover manikin study with clinical simulation with 41 lifeguards attached to the Plan of Surveillance and Rescue in Beaches. Each participant performed 2 minutes of basic life support (CPRb). Afterward, each participant performed 2 minutes of CPR with hands-only (CPRho). The data collection was carried out with a CPR calibrated Mannequin. Results: The mean depth was 48.05± 8.99 mm for CPRb, and 44.76 ± 9.73 mm for CPRho (t = 5.81, p &lt; 0.001, 95% CI, 2.15 - 4.44), the rate was 123 ± 16.11 compressions/min for CPRb and 120 ± 17.89 for CPRho. The CPRho achieved a mean of 46 ± 42.6 complete chest recoil, versus 35 ± 35.19 for CPRb (z = -2.625, p = 0.009). 20.74% of ventilation were hypoventilation and 42.72% were hyperventilation. Conclusions: Mouth-to-mouth ventilation performed by lifeguards (without devices) was not effective. When ventilations were not performed, the number of high-quality compressions increased in absolute values. The mean depth of chest compressions was higher in the CPRho. Most of the participants did not perform the ventilations correctly, which resulted in time without compression and ventilation. The number of chest compressions with complete chest recoil was higher in CPRho. When ventilations were not performed, the number of high-quality compressions increased in absolute values.

Short-Interval Self-Learning to Improve Retention of Resuscitation Skills: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The optimal interval and methods for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) retraining remain unclear. We evaluated the difference in CPR skills one year after a 45-minute chest compression-only CPR training among participants receiving short self-learning refresher training at 3-month intervals, those receiving this training at 6-month intervals, and those without the refresher training. Participants were randomly assigned to the 3-month group, 6-month group, or control group. Resuscitation skills were assessed immediately after the initial training, and at 1 year after the training. The primary endpoint was the number of chest compressions performed with appropriate depth one year after the training. Among 129 participants that were selected, 112 were fully evaluated. Although no significant differences were found in the baseline characteristics among the three groups, the self-training groups demonstrated a tendency to perform fewer chest compressions with appropriate depth (p = .122). No significant differences were observed between the three groups in terms of the number of chest compressions with appropriate depth one year after the training (p = .895). However, the appropriate number of chest compressions, the number of chest compressions with appropriate depth, and chest compression depth in the short-interval self-retraining groups one year later were better than those observed immediately after training. Short self-retraining every 3 or 6 months after the chest compression-only CPR training could not be attributed to the retention of chest compression skills with appropriate depth. However, short, frequent self-retraining in persons with poor skills might be useful in acquiring chest compression skills.

Effects of ‘Rescuer’ Rotating Time on the Quality of Chest Compressions: 1-Minute Vs. 2-Minute Intervals

Introduction Fatigue can influence the quality of continuous chest compression cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CCC-CPR). This study was conducted to compare the effect of ‘rescuer’ rotating time on the quality of chest compressions at 1-minute and 2-minute intervals. Methods The present semi-experimental study was conducted on 70 non-professional ‘rescuers’ as 35 two-person teams using a crossover design. All teams performed eight 2-minute cycles of CCC-CPR with a rotation of 1 minute and 2 minutes. Quality metrics of the chest compression rate, appropriate depth of compression, and total rate of compressions at the end of eight 2-minute cycles were used to assess the quality of the chest compressions. Results The study results showed that the number of chest compressions with an adequate depth performed by the non-professional rescuers in the 1- and 2-minute scenarios wererespectively 118.18 and 100.87. There was no significant difference in the number of chest compressions between the two scenarios at the end of the CCC-CPR, but the number of compressions with sufficient depth in the 1-minute scenario was better than that in the 2-minute scenario. Conclusion The study showed that although the rate of chest compression had a downward trend in the 1-minute scenario, rescuers maintained 100 to 120 chest compressions after 16 minutes. This means that non-professional rescuers replacement after 1 minute can increase chest compression with sufficient depth.

Does the British Heart Foundation PocketCPR training application improve confidence in bystanders performing CPR?

Objectives:Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest has poor prognosis and patients rarely survive unless they receive immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation from bystanders. In 2012, the British Heart Foundation launched its PocketCPR training application to simplify bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation training and overcome barriers to resuscitation. This study investigates whether the British Heart Foundation PocketCPR training application improves the confidence of bystanders who perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation during simulated resuscitation attempts.Methods:This is a mixed method study using a randomised crossover trial with questionnaire analysis. One hundred and twenty participants were randomised to either perform two minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation on a resuscitation manikin using the British Heart Foundation PocketCPR application or perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation without instruction. Participants completed a questionnaire to capture their confidence before completing the opposite arm of the study. Each participant then completed a second questionnaire to allow for comparison of levels of confidence.Results:Participants in this study were more confident in their overall performance of cardio-pulmonary resuscitation using the British Heart Foundation PocketCPR training application compared to performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation without instruction (mean confidence score (0–100): 50.41 with PocketCPR and 43.92 without (p = 0.026)). They were also more confident that the number of chest compressions in this study was correct (mean: 60.39 with PocketCPR vs. 46.10 without (p < 0.001)), and in the delivery of cardiopulmonary resuscitation without having recent cardiopulmonary resuscitation training (mean: 48.67 with PocketCPR vs. 39.79 without (p < 0.002)).Conclusion:The British Heart Foundation PocketCPR training application improved the confidence of bystanders performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation during simulated resuscitation attempts.

Quality of audio-assisted versus video-assisted dispatcher-instructed bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AimThis study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing the effect of video-assistance and audio-assistance on quality of dispatcher-instructed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (DI-CPR) for bystanders. MethodsFive databases were searched, including PubMed, Cochrane library, Embase, Scopus and NIH clinical trial, to find randomized control trials published before June 2017. Qualitative analysis and meta-analysis were undertaken to examine the difference between the quality of video-instructed and audio-instructed dispatcher-instructed bystander CPR. ResultsThe database search yielded 929 records, resulting in the inclusion of 9 relevant articles in this study. Of these, 6 were included in the meta-analysis. Initiation of chest compressions was slower in the video-instructed group than in the audio-instructed group (median delay 31.5 s; 95% CI: 10.94–52.09). The difference in the number of chest compressions per minute between the groups was 19.9 (95% CI: 10.50–29.38) with significantly faster compressions in the video-instructed group than in the audio-instructed group (104.8 vs. 80.6). The odds ratio (OR) for correct hand positioning was 0.8 (95% CI: 0.53–1.30) when comparing the audio-instructed and video-instructed groups. The differences in chest compression depth (mm) and time to first ventilation (seconds) between the video-instructed group and audio-instructed group were 1.6 mm (95% CI: −8.75, 5.55) and 7.5 s (95% CI: −56.84, 71.80), respectively. ConclusionsVideo-instructed DI-CPR significantly improved the chest compression rate compared to the audio-instructed method, and a trend for correctness of hand position was also observed. However, this method caused a delay in the commencement of bystander-initiated CPR in the simulation setting.

Effect of an interactive cardiopulmonary resuscitation assist device with an automated external defibrillator synchronised with a ventilator on the CPR performance of emergency medical service staff: a randomised simulation study

BackgroundThe present study evaluates whether the quality of advanced cardiac life support (ALS) is improved with an interactive prototype assist device. This device consists of an automated external defibrillator linked to a ventilator and provides synchronised visual and acoustic instructions for guidance through the ALS algorithm and assistance for face-mask ventilations.MethodsWe compared the cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) quality of emergency medical system (EMS) staff members using the study device or standard equipment in a mannequin simulation study with a prospective, controlled, randomised cross-over study design. Main outcome was the effect of the study device compared to the standard equipment and the effect of the number of prior ALS trainings of the EMS staff on the CPR quality. Data were analysed using analyses of covariance (ANCOVA) and binary logistic regression, accounting for the study design.ResultsIn 106 simulations of 56 two-person rescuer teams, the mean hands-off time was 24.5% with study equipment and 23.5% with standard equipment (Difference 1.0% (95% CI: −0.4 to 2.5%); p = 0.156). With both types of equipment, the hands-off time decreased with an increasing cumulative number of previous CPR trainings (p = 0.042). The study equipment reduced the mean time until administration of adrenaline (epinephrine) by 23 s (p = 0.003) and that of amiodarone by 17 s (p = 0.016). It also increased the mean number of changes in the person doing chest compressions (0.6 per simulation; p < 0.001) and decreased the mean number of chest compressions (2.8 per minute; p = 0.022) and the mean number of ventilations (1.8 per minute; p < 0.001). The chance of administering amiodarone at the appropriate time was higher, with an odds ratio of 4.15, with the use of the study equipment CPR.com compared to the standard equipment (p = 0.004). With an increasing number of prior CPR trainings, the time intervals in the ALS algorithm until the defibrillations decreased with standard equipment but increased with the study device.ConclusionsEMS staff with limited training in CPR profit from guidance through the ALS algorithm by the study device. However, the study device somehow reduced the ALS quality of well-trained rescuers and thus can only be recommended for ALS provider with limited experience.

Change in the Quality of the Chest Compression that is Practicable during Transport

Objectives: CPR during transportation has really important meaning for arrest patient. By that, authors of this paper consider many chest compression methods which can execute in ambulance during transportation. Methods/Statistical Analysis: This study was enforced from 15th of September 2015 to 19th of September 2015. Recruited subjects were executed randomly selected chest compression method without artificial respiration for 8 minutes as 2015 revised CPR guideline on practical manikin in private ambulance. To have same transportation condition, this research let only one driver to drive 4km distance from Namyeong elementary school in Busan Gangseo-gu with average 60~70km/ hr for every subjects. Findings: Observed average number of appropriate chest compression during continuous chest compression during 8 minutes seemed to be increased by time past. Average execution ratio of appropriate chest compression depth was getting decreased from all three groups. Also there was no statistical significant difference among all timeslots except 4~6 minutes after initiating chest compression. For average execution ratio of Inappropriate relaxation of chest compression, chest compression with one hand seemed to have the most appropriate result among three groups and chest compression with knee shows the most inappropriate result among three groups. There was no significant difference among three groups for average execution of appropriate number of chest compression (p>.05). Also, there was no significant difference from each group for average execution of appropriate chest compression depth (p>.05). There was significant difference from 4 minutes to 6 minutes from three groups for average execution of inappropriate chest compression position (p<.05). there was significant difference among all time slots except period from start to 2 minutes (p<.05). Improvements/Applications: The results demonstrate that it is considerable to conduct the chest compression using the knee when transport takes time so that the quality of the pressure is very low. Keywords: Arrest, Chest Compression, CPR (Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation), Knee Compression, Transportation

Keep pushing! Limiting interruptions to CPR; bag-valve mask versus i-gel® airway ventilation

Background: Recent recommendations made by ILCOR have de-emphasised the role of advanced airway management such as “endotracheal intubation” (ETI) during cardiac arrest in favour of maximising the number of chest compressions performed by rescuers. Maximising time available for compressions is achieved by minimising hands-off time (HOT). This has led to first responders and paramedics performing single rescuer CPR using a bag-valve-mask (BVM) device as opposed to the historical practice of intubating and ventilating via an endotracheal tube. Bag-valve-mask ventilations, especially during single rescuer CPR, are however associated with complications potentially resulting in increased ventilation times. More time spent on ventilations in the single rescuer scenario naturally leads to an increase in HOT and less time being available for compressions. It is postulated that the use of an appropriate supraglottic airway device (SAD) may decrease the time spent on the ventilation component of CPR and result in a decrease in HOT.Objectives: This pilot study evaluated how interruptions to chest compressions or hands-off time (HOT) are affected by the placement of an i-gel® airway vs. simple BVM ventilation during single rescuer CPR.Method: 16 participants performed two, ten-minute single rescuer CPR simulations, firstly using the BVM and later the i-gel® airway for ventilation. Data pertaining to ventilations and HOT in each scenario was statistically analysed and compared.Results: The i-gel® airway demonstrated a superior ease of ventilation compared to BVM alone and resulted in a reduction of time spent on ventilations overall. The i-gel® however took a mean of 29 s, ± 10 s, to secure which contributes considerably to HOT.Conclusion: The use of the i-gel® airway resulted in a considerable decrease in the amount of time spent on ventilations and in more compressions being performed. The overall reduction in HOT was, however, offset by the time it took to secure the device. Further investigation into the use and securing of the i-gel® airway in single rescuer CPR is recommended.

Automated Data Abstraction of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Process Measures for Complete Episodes of Cardiac Arrest Resuscitation.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) process measures research and quality assurance has traditionally been limited to the first 5 minutes of resuscitation due to significant costs in time, resources, and personnel from manual data abstraction. CPR performance may change over time during prolonged resuscitations, which represents a significant knowledge gap. Moreover, currently available commercial software output of CPR process measures are difficult to analyze. The objective was to develop and validate a software program to help automate the abstraction and transfer of CPR process measures data from electronic defibrillators for complete episodes of cardiac arrest resuscitation. We developed a software program to facilitate and help automate CPR data abstraction and transfer from electronic defibrillators for entire resuscitation episodes. Using an intermediary Extensible Markup Language export file, the automated software transfers CPR process measures data (electrocardiogram [ECG] number, CPR start time, number of ventilations, number of chest compressions, compression rate per minute, compression depth per minute, compression fraction, and end-tidal CO2 per minute). We performed an internal validation of the software program on 50 randomly selected cardiac arrest cases with resuscitation durations between 15 and 60 minutes. CPR process measures were manually abstracted and transferred independently by two trained data abstractors and by the automated software program, followed by manual interpretation of raw ECG tracings, treatment interventions, and patient events. Error rates and the time needed for data abstraction, transfer, and interpretation were measured for both manual and automated methods, compared to an additional independent reviewer. A total of 9,826 data points were each abstracted by the two abstractors and by the software program. Manual data abstraction resulted in a total of six errors (0.06%) compared to zero errors by the software program. The mean ± SD time measured per case for manual data abstraction was 20.3 ± 2.7 minutes compared to 5.3 ± 1.4 minutes using the software program (p = 0.003). We developed and validated an automated software program that efficiently abstracts and transfers CPR process measures data from electronic defibrillators for complete cardiac arrest episodes. This software will enable future cardiac arrest studies and quality assurance programs to evaluate the impact of CPR process measures during prolonged resuscitations.

Abstract 19197: No Difference in Retention of BLS/AED Skills When Teaching Laypersons Using Four-stage and Two-stage Teaching Technique: A Randomized Comparison

Introduction: The ability of laypersons to perform BLS/AED increases immediately after resuscitation training. Studies indicate that resuscitation skills rapidly decay after initial training, however it is unknown whether teaching technique influence retention of skill. Aim: To study the retention of BLS/AED skills three months after training when teaching laypersons using a four-stage and two-stage teaching technique. Methods: Laypersons (exclusion: health care professionals/students) were randomized to a standardized ERC BLS/AED courses using the four-stage teaching technique or to courses with the same content but modified to a two-stage teaching technique. Participants were tested in a simulated cardiac arrest scenario three months (±five days) after their course to assess retention of BLS/AED. Tests were video recorded and reviewed by two independent assessors blinded to training technique. Skills were assessed using the ERC BLS/AED assessment form. The primary endpoint was passing the test (17 out of 17 skills adequately performed). Results: A total of 160 participants were included in the study. No difference was found in pass rate immediately after training (diff. -1.6%; 95%CI -17.9%; 14.6%). There was no statistical difference in retention of BLS/AED skills (pass rate: both 11%, diff. -0.4%; 95%CI -28%-27%) three months after training . Total average skills adequately performed (of 17) were 13.7 versus 13.3 among laypersons trained with the four-stage (n=64) and the two-stage technique (n=64). No difference was found in number of chest compressions delivered per compression cycle (29±2.8 vs 30±3.1), chest compression rate (107±17 vs 108±19 minute-1), chest compression depth (46±11 vs 43±12 mm), number of effective rescue breaths between compression cycles (1.6±0.7 vs 1.6±0.5) and tidal volume (0.6±0.4 0.7±0.4 L). Conclusion: We found no difference in retention of BLS/AED skills among laypersons taught using a four-stage teaching technique compared to a two-stage teaching technique.

A Chest Compression Quality Evaluation Using Mechanical Chest Compressions under Different Working Situations in the Ambulance

Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze the quality of chest compressions in different working situations pertaining to ambulance crews using either standard chest compressions (S-CC) or LUCAS mechanical chest compressions (L-CC) in a manikin setting. Participants and Methods: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was performed using a compression to ventilation ratio of 30:2 with both S-CC and L-CC. Quality parameters were collected using a modified manikin enabling impedance measurements. The evaluation was performed in two manikin scenarios: Scenario 1 evaluated ten minutes of CPR on the ground and Scenario 2 assessed six minutes of CPR in different settings relevant to work in the ambulance. Quality parameters compared were: time to apply LUCAS, hands-off fraction, number of correct chest compressions and the rate of compressions. Results: In Scenario 1 the hands-off fraction was higher when S-CC was performed (S-CC group 29% vs. L-CC 16%, P = 0.003). We found a higher number of chest compressions (S-CC = 913 vs. L-CC = 831, P = 0.0049) and a higher rate of chest compressions (S-CC = 118 vs. L-CC = 99, P < 0.0001) in the S-CC group. In Scenario 2 we noted a higher hands-off fraction for S-CC (39% vs. L-CC = 19%, P = 0.003), but a higher number of compressions given during S-CC ((n = 504) vs. L-CC (n = 396) P = 0.0002). Conclusion: Mechanical chest compression with the LUCAS 2TM device enables ambulance personnel to provide high quality chest compression even while transporting the patient.

The Efficacy of Alternative Cardiopulmomonary Resuscitation Methods When Compared to Standard Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Simulation Study

ObjectiveThere are limited data comparing the alternative cardiopulmomary resuscitation (CPR) methods (over the head CPR, straddle CPR and one hand CPR) to standard CPR performed by emergency medical technicians (EMTs). Therefore we investigated the efficacy of the alternative CPRs compared to that of standard CPR performed by EMTs in simulated cardiac arrest scenarios.MethodsThirty EMTs of intermediate level participated in this study. The performance of CPR was defined as the average depth, the total number of chest compressions, and the rate of compressions. EMTs performed three minutes of standard CPR and of alternative CPR on standard simulation mannequins with recording devices. Recorded performance was measured and compared between subgroups by the type of CPR, gender of EMTs and gender with various methods of CPR using ANOVA and t test statistics.ResultsThe average depth of compressions was 42.3±5.8, 42.6±4.7, 43.5±3.7, 33.8±6.6 mm (mean±standard deviation) respectively in standard CPR, over the head CPR, straddle CPR and one hand CPR. The total number of chest compression was 330.4±38.1, 334.8±70.2, 334.0±34.9, 312.1±53.5 in 3 minutes. The rate of compressions was found to be 111.5±10.3, 113.8±11.6, 110.5±11.2, 110.7±11.8 times per minute. The comparison of the performance qualities for the four types of CPR showed that the compression depth was significantly lower in one‐hand CPR (p&lt;0.000). No EMT gender difference in the quality of performance of total CPR was noted.ConclusionsThe efficacy of alternative CPRs are shown to be similar to that of standard CPR in a compression‐only simulation cardiac arrest model.

Using the 30 : 2 compression–ventilation ratio: five cycles is easier to follow than 2 min of cardiopulmonary resuscitation

This study assessed the time it takes for newly trained basic life-support/automated external defibrillator (BLS/AED) providers to complete five cycles of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and whether it is easier to follow a 2-min time frame or to count five cycles of CPR. Then, it assesses how many chest compressions are delivered with each of the two methods and the time needed to deliver the first two rescue breaths. Eighty BLS/AED providers were asked to provide 2 min of CPR with a compression-ventilation ratio of 30:2 and at a compression rate of 100/min without looking at any timing device and then to provide five cycles of CPR with the same compression-ventilation ratio. The number of chest compressions delivered, the time needed to complete five cycles of CPR, and the time needed to perform the first two rescue breaths were recorded. Finally, a scripted set of questions was asked to each participant. The time required to perform five cycles of CPR was 115+/-5 s and to perform the 2 min of CPR was 102+/-19 s (P = NS). Chest compressions delivered in the presumed 2-min CPR were 123+/-12 and 149+/-2 in the five cycles CPR (P<0.05). Sixty-two participants (77.5%) found it easier to count five cycles of CPR. The time needed to deliver the first two rescue breaths was between 12 and 15 s. The average time to complete five cycles of CPR is approximately 2 min for newly trained BLS/AED providers and the majority of the participants found it easier to perform five cycles.

The effect of transport on quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest

Introduction Most manikin and clinical studies have found decreased quality of CPR during transport to hospital. We wanted to study quality of CPR before and during transport for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients and also whether quality of CPR before initiation of transport was different from the quality in patients only receiving CPR on scene. Materials and methods Quality of CPR was prospectively registered with a modified defibrillator for consecutive cases of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in three ambulance services during 2002–2005. Ventilations were registered via changes in transthoracic impedance and chest compressions were measured with an extra chest compression pad placed on the patients’ sternum. Paired t-tests were used to analyse quality of CPR before vs. during transport with ongoing CPR. Unpaired t-tests were used to compare CPR quality prior to transport to CPR quality in patients with CPR terminated on site. Results Quality of CPR did not deteriorate during transport, but as previously reported overall quality of CPR was substandard. Quality of CPR performed on site was significantly better when transport was not initiated with ongoing CPR compared to episodes with initiation of transport during CPR: fraction of time without chest compressions was 0.45 and 0.53 ( p < 0.001), compression depth 37 mm and 34 mm ( p = 0.04), and number of chest compressions per minute 61 and 56 ( p = 0.01), respectively. Conclusion CPR quality was sub-standard both before and during transport. Early decision to transport might have negatively affected CPR quality from the early stages of resuscitation.