The use of CPR feedback/prompt devices during training and CPR performance: A systematic review

Neighborhood characteristics, bystander automated external defibrillator use, and patient outcomes in public out-of-hospital cardiac arrest

BACKGROUND

Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) can be used by bystanders to provide rapid defibrillation for patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Whether neighborhood characteristics are associated with AED use is unknown. Furthermore, the association between AED use and outcomes has not been well characterized for all (i.e. shockable and non-shockable) public OHCAs.

METHODS

We included public, non-911-responder witnessed OHCAs registered in the Cardiac Arrest Registry to Enhance Survival (CARES) between 2013 and 2016. The primary patient outcome was survival to hospital discharge with a favorable functional outcome. We first assessed the association between neighborhood characteristics and bystander AED use using logistic regression and then assessed the association between bystander AED use and patient outcomes in a propensity score matched cohort.

RESULTS

25,182 OHCAs were included. Several neighborhood characteristics, including the proportion of people living alone, the proportion of white people, and the proportion with a high-school degree or higher, were associated with bystander AED use. 5132 OHCAs were included in the propensity score-matched cohort. Bystander AED use was associated with an increased risk of a favorable functional outcome (35% vs. 25%, risk difference: 9.7% [95% confidence interval: 7.2%, 12.2%], risk ratio: 1.38 [95% confidence interval: 1.27, 1.50]). This was driven by increased favorable functional outcomes with AED use in patients with shockable rhythms (58% vs. 39%) but not in patients with non-shockable rhythms (10% vs. 10%).

CONCLUSIONS

Specific neighborhood characteristics were associated with bystander AED use in OHCA. Bystander AED use was associated with an increase in favorable functional outcome.

Prehospital randomised assessment of a mechanical compression device in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (PARAMEDIC): a pragmatic, cluster randomised trial and economic evaluation

BACKGROUND

Mechanical chest compression devices may help to maintain high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), but little evidence exists for their effectiveness. We evaluated whether or not the introduction of Lund University Cardiopulmonary Assistance System-2 (LUCAS-2; Jolife AB, Lund, Sweden) mechanical CPR into front-line emergency response vehicles would improve survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA).

OBJECTIVE

Evaluation of the LUCAS-2 device as a routine ambulance service treatment for OHCA.

DESIGN

Pragmatic, cluster randomised trial including adults with non-traumatic OHCA. Ambulance dispatch staff and those collecting the primary outcome were blind to treatment allocation. Blinding of the ambulance staff who delivered the interventions and reported initial response to treatment was not possible. We also conducted a health economic evaluation and a systematic review of all trials of out-of-hospital mechanical chest compression.

SETTING

Four UK ambulance services (West Midlands, North East England, Wales and South Central), comprising 91 urban and semiurban ambulance stations. Clusters were ambulance service vehicles, which were randomly assigned (approximately 1 : 2) to the LUCAS-2 device or manual CPR.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients were included if they were in cardiac arrest in the out-of-hospital environment. Exclusions were patients with cardiac arrest as a result of trauma, with known or clinically apparent pregnancy, or aged < 18 years.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients received LUCAS-2 mechanical chest compression or manual chest compressions according to the first trial vehicle to arrive on scene.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Survival at 30 days following cardiac arrest; survival without significant neurological impairment [Cerebral Performance Category (CPC) score of 1 or 2].

RESULTS

We enrolled 4471 eligible patients (1652 assigned to the LUCAS-2 device and 2819 assigned to control) between 15 April 2010 and 10 June 2013. A total of 985 (60%) patients in the LUCAS-2 group received mechanical chest compression and 11 (< 1%) patients in the control group received LUCAS-2. In the intention-to-treat analysis, 30-day survival was similar in the LUCAS-2 (104/1652, 6.3%) and manual CPR groups [193/2819, 6.8%; adjusted odds ratio (OR) 0.86, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.64 to 1.15]. Survival with a CPC score of 1 or 2 may have been worse in the LUCAS-2 group (adjusted OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.99). No serious adverse events were noted. The systematic review found no evidence of a survival advantage if mechanical chest compression was used. The health economic analysis showed that LUCAS-2 was dominated by manual chest compression.

LIMITATIONS

There was substantial non-compliance in the LUCAS-2 arm. For 272 out of 1652 patients (16.5%), mechanical chest compression was not used for reasons that would not occur in clinical practice. We addressed this issue by using complier average causal effect analyses. We attempted to measure CPR quality during the resuscitation attempts of trial participants, but were unable to do so.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no evidence of improvement in 30-day survival with LUCAS-2 compared with manual compressions. Our systematic review of recent randomised trials did not suggest that survival or survival without significant disability may be improved by the use of mechanical chest compression.

FUTURE WORK

The use of mechanical chest compression for in-hospital cardiac arrest, and in specific circumstances (e.g. transport), has not yet been evaluated.

TRIAI REGISTRATION

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN08233942.

FUNDING

This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 21, No. 11. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

Addition of Audiovisual Feedback During Standard Compressions Is Associated with Improved Ability

Introduction

A benefit of in-hospital cardiac arrest is the opportunity for rapid initiation of “high-quality” chest compressions as defined by current American Heart Association (AHA) adult guidelines as a depth 2–2.4 inches, full chest recoil, rate 100–120 per minute, and minimal interruptions with a chest compression fraction (CCF) ≥ 60%. The goal of this study was to assess the effect of audiovisual feedback on the ability to maintain high-quality chest compressions as per 2015 updated guidelines.

Methods

Ninety-eight participants were randomized into four groups. Participants were randomly assigned to perform chest compressions with or without use of audiovisual feedback (+/− AVF). Participants were further assigned to perform either standard compressions with a ventilation ratio of 30:2 to simulate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) without an advanced airway or continuous chest compressions to simulate CPR with an advanced airway. The primary outcome measured was ability to maintain high-quality chest compressions as defined by current 2015 AHA guidelines.

Results

Overall comparisons between continuous and standard chest compressions (n=98) were without significant differences in chest compression dynamics (p’s >0.05). Overall comparisons between +/− AVF (n = 98) were significant for differences in average rate of compressions per minute (p= 0.0241) and proportion of chest compressions within guideline rate recommendations (p = 0.0084). There was a significant difference in the proportion of high quality-chest compressions favoring AVF (p = 0.0399). Comparisons between chest compression strategy groups +/− AVF were significant for differences in compression dynamics favoring AVF (p’s < 0.05).

Conclusion

Overall, AVF is associated with greater ability to maintain high-quality chest compressions per most-recent AHA guidelines. Specifically, AVF was associated with a greater proportion of compressions within ideal rate with standard chest compressions while demonstrating a greater proportion of compressions with simultaneous ideal rate and depth with a continuous compression strategy.

Monitoring chest compression quality during cardiopulmonary resuscitation: Proof-of-concept of a single accelerometer-based feedback algorithm

BACKGROUND

The use of real-time feedback systems to guide rescuers during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) significantly contributes to improve adherence to published resuscitation guidelines. Recently, we designed a novel method for computing depth and rate of chest compressions relying solely on the spectral analysis of chest acceleration. That method was extensively tested in a simulated manikin scenario. The purpose of this study is to report the results of this method as tested in human out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) cases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The algorithm was evaluated retrospectively with seventy five OHCA episodes recorded by monitor-defibrillators equipped with a CPR feedback device. The acceleration signal and the compression signal computed by the CPR feedback device were stored in each episode. The algorithm was continuously applied to the acceleration signals. The depth and rate values estimated every 2-s from the acceleration data were compared to the reference values obtained from the compression signal. The performance of the algorithm was assesed in terms of the sensitivity and positive predictive value (PPV) for detecting compressions and in terms of its accuracy through the analysis of measurement error.

RESULTS

The algorithm reported a global sensitivity and PPV of 99.98% and 99.79%, respectively. The median (P75) unsigned error in depth and rate was 0.9 (1.7) mm and 1.0 (1.7) cpm, respectively. In 95% of the analyzed 2-s windows the error was below 3.5 mm and 3.1 cpm, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The CPR feedback algorithm proved to be reliable and accurate when tested retrospectively with human OHCA episodes. A new CPR feedback device based on this algorithm could be helpful in the resuscitation field.

No Benefit in Neurologic Outcomes of Survivors of Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest with Mechanical Compression Device

INTRODUCTION

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is a major cause of death and morbidity in the United States. Quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) has proven to be a key factor in improving survival. The aim of our study was to investigate the outcomes of OHCA when mechanical CPR (LUCAS 2 Chest Compression System™) was utilized compared to conventional CPR. Although controlled trials have not demonstrated a survival benefit to the routine use of mechanical CPR devices, there continues to be an interest for their use in OHCA.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective observational study of OHCA comparing the outcomes of mechanical and manual chest compressions in a fire department based EMS system serving a population of 1.4 million residents. Mechanical CPR devices were geographically distributed on 11 of 33 paramedic ambulances. Data were collected over a 36-month period and outcomes were dichotomized based on utilization of mechanical CPR. The primary outcome measure was survival to hospital discharge with a cerebral performance category (CPC) score of 1 or 2.

RESULTS

This series had 3,469 OHCA reports, of which 2,999 had outcome data and met the inclusion criteria. Of these 2,236 received only manual CPR and 763 utilized a mechanical CPR device during the resuscitation. Return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) was attained in 44% (334/763) of the mechanical CPR resuscitations and in 46% (1,020/2,236) of the standard manual CPR resuscitations (p = 0.32). Survival to hospital discharge was observed in 7% (52/763) of the mechanical CPR resuscitations and 9% (191/2,236) of the manual CPR group (p = 0.13). Discharge with a CPC score of 1 or 2 was observed in 4% (29/763) of the mechanical CPR resuscitation group and 6% (129/2,236) of the manual CPR group (p = 0.036).

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, use of the mechanical CPR device was associated with a poor neurologic outcome at hospital discharge. However, this difference was no longer evident after logistic regression adjusting for confounding variables. Resuscitation management following institution of mechanical CPR, specifically medication and airway management, may account for the poor outcome reported. Further investigation of resuscitation management when a mechanical CPR device is utilized is necessary to optimize survival benefit.

Performance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation feedback systems in a long-distance train with distributed traction

BACKGROUND

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is common in public locations, including public transportation sites. Feedback devices are increasingly being used to improve chest-compression quality. However, their performance during public transportation has not been studied yet.

OBJECTIVE

To test two CPR feedback devices representative of the current technologies (accelerometer and electromag- netic-field) in a long-distance train.

METHODS

Volunteers applied compressions on a manikin during the train route using both feedback devices. Depth and rate measurements computed by the devices were compared to the gold-standard values.

RESULTS

Sixty-four 4-min records were acquired. The accelerometer-based device provided visual help in all experiments. Median absolute errors in depth and rate were 2.4 mm and 1.3 compressions per minute (cpm) during conventional speed, and 2.5 mm and 1.2 cpm during high speed. The electromagnetic-field-based device never provided CPR feedback; alert messages were shown instead. However, measurements were stored in its internal memory. Absolute errors for depth and rate were 2.6 mm and 0.7 cpm during conventional speed, and 2.6 mm and 0.7 cpm during high speed.

CONCLUSIONS

Both devices were accurate despite the accelerations and the electromagnetic interferences induced by the train. However, the electromagnetic-field-based device would require modifications to avoid excessive alerts impeding feedback.

A Randomised, Cross over Study Using a Mannequin Model to Evaluate the Effects on CPR Quality of Real-Time Audio-Visual Feedback Provided by a Smartphone Application

Objective

To evaluate the effect of real time feedback provided by smartphone application on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) performance.

Methods

Participants were randomised in two groups based on whether chest compression with or without the assistance of the smartphone application. Both groups performed hands-only CPR on a mannequin for 4 minutes. Data on CPR performance of both groups was compared. To assess the reliability the feedback value, we compared the CPR data from Skillmeter and data from smartphone. A questionnaire survey to participants about the usefulness of the application was also evaluated.

Results

Twenty-one subjects were recruited for the study. We found no significant difference in mean chest compression rate (103.3±5.0/min vs. 107.1±1.7/min; p=0.133) and depth between the two groups (47.3 [39.3, 56.2] mm vs. 45.8 [40.3, 49.9] mm; p=0.085). The proportion of adequate compression depth over the total compression was significantly higher in the group using the smartphone (38.1% vs. 22.2%; p=0.034). The CPR data displayed on smartphone application in mannequin's chest was not different from Skillmeter software. The majority of the participants considered the application easy to use, but holding the smartphone during CPR hampered compression.

Conclusions

Real-time audio-visual feedback on CPR depth and rate using a smartphone application can help to maintain the adequate chest compression depth in prolonged CPR. A better method to hold the smartphone may maximise the feedback effect on CPR quality. (Hong Kong j.emerg.med. 2014;21:153-160)

Reducing the impact of intensive care unit mattress compressibility during CPR: a simulation-based study

BACKGROUND

The depth of chest compression (CC) during cardiac arrest is associated with patient survival and good neurological outcomes. Previous studies showed that mattress compression can alter the amount of CCs given with adequate depth. We aim to quantify the amount of mattress compressibility on two types of ICU mattresses and explore the effect of memory foam mattress use and a backboard on mattress compression depth and effect of feedback source on effective compression depth.

METHODS

The study utilizes a cross-sectional self-control study design. Participants working in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) performed 1 min of CC on a manikin in each of the following four conditions: (i) typical ICU mattress; (ii) typical ICU mattress with a CPR backboard; (iii) memory foam ICU mattress; and (iv) memory foam ICU mattress with a CPR backboard, using two different sources of real-time feedback: (a) external accelerometer sensor device measuring total compression depth and (b) internal light sensor measuring effective compression depth only. CPR quality was concurrently measured by these two devices. The differences of the two measures (mattress compression depth) were summarized and compared using multilevel linear regression models. Effective compression depths with different sources of feedback were compared with a multilevel linear regression model.

RESULTS

The mean mattress compression depth varied from 24.6 to 47.7 mm, with percentage of depletion from 31.2 to 47.5%. Both use of memory foam mattress (mean difference, MD 11.7 mm, 95%CI 4.8-18.5 mm) and use of backboard (MD 11.6 mm, 95% CI 9.0-14.3 mm) significantly minimized the mattress compressibility. Use of internal light sensor as source of feedback improved effective CC depth by 7-14 mm, compared with external accelerometer sensor.

CONCLUSION

Use of a memory foam mattress and CPR backboard minimizes mattress compressibility, but depletion of compression depth is still substantial. A feedback device measuring sternum-to-spine displacement can significantly improve effective compression depth on a mattress.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Not applicable. This is a mannequin-based simulation research.

Return of spontaneous circulation and long-term survival according to feedback provided by automated external defibrillators

Background

We aimed to investigate the effect of automated external defibrillator (AED) feedback mechanisms on survival in out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) victims. In addition, we investigated converting rates in patients with shockable rhythms according to AED shock waveforms and energy levels.

Methods

We collected data on OHCA occurring between 2011 and 2014 in the Capital Region of Denmark where an AED was applied prior to ambulance arrival. Patient data were obtained from the Danish Cardiac Arrest Registry and medical records. AED data were retrieved from the Emergency Medical Dispatch Centre (EMDC) and information on feedback mechanisms, energy waveform and energy level was downloaded from the applied AEDs.

Results

A total of 196 OHCAs had an AED applied prior to ambulance arrival; 62 of these (32%) provided audio visual (AV) feedback while no feedback was provided in 134 (68%). We found no difference in return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) at hospital arrival according to AV‐feedback; 34 (55%, 95% confidence interval (CI) [13–67]) vs. 72 (54%, 95% CI [45–62]), P = 1 (odds ratio (OR) 1.1, 95% CI [0.6–1.9]) or 30‐day survival; 24 (39%, 95% CI [28–51]) vs. 53 (40%, 95% CI [32–49]), P = 0.88 (OR 1.1 (95% CI [0.6–2.0])). Moreover, we found no difference in converting rates among patients with initial shockable rhythm receiving one or more shocks according to AED energy waveform and energy level.

Conclusions

No difference in survival after OHCA according to AED feedback mechanisms, nor any difference in converting rates according to AED waveform or energy levels was detected.

Basic life support: evaluation of learning using simulation and immediate feedback devices1

OBJECTIVE

to evaluate students' learning in an online course on basic life support with immediate feedback devices, during a simulation of care during cardiorespiratory arrest.

METHOD

a quasi-experimental study, using a before-and-after design. An online course on basic life support was developed and administered to participants, as an educational intervention. Theoretical learning was evaluated by means of a pre- and post-test and, to verify the practice, simulation with immediate feedback devices was used.

RESULTS

there were 62 participants, 87% female, 90% in the first and second year of college, with a mean age of 21.47 (standard deviation 2.39). With a 95% confidence level, the mean scores in the pre-test were 6.4 (standard deviation 1.61), and 9.3 in the post-test (standard deviation 0.82, p <0.001); in practice, 9.1 (standard deviation 0.95) with performance equivalent to basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation, according to the feedback device; 43.7 (standard deviation 26.86) mean duration of the compression cycle by second of 20.5 (standard deviation 9.47); number of compressions 167.2 (standard deviation 57.06); depth of compressions of 48.1 millimeter (standard deviation 10.49); volume of ventilation 742.7 (standard deviation 301.12); flow fraction percentage of 40.3 (standard deviation 10.03).

CONCLUSION

the online course contributed to learning of basic life support. In view of the need for technological innovations in teaching and systematization of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, simulation and feedback devices are resources that favor learning and performance awareness in performing the maneuvers.

Development of an instrument for the evaluation of advanced life support performance

BACKGROUND

Assessing advanced life support (ALS) competence requires validated instruments. Existing instruments include aspects of technical skills (TS), non-technical skills (NTS) or both, but one instrument for detailed assessment that suits all resuscitation situations is lacking. This study aimed to develop an instrument for the evaluation of the overall ALS performance of the whole team.

METHODS

This instrument development study had four phases. First, we reviewed literature and resuscitation guidelines to explore items to include in the instrument. Thereafter, we interviewed resuscitation team professionals (n = 66), using the critical incident technique, to determine possible additional aspects associated with the performance of ALS. Second, we developed an instrument based on the findings. Third, we used an expert panel (n = 20) to assess the validity of the developed instrument. Finally, we revised the instrument based on the experts' comments and tested it with six experts who evaluated 22 video recorded resuscitations.

RESULTS

The final version of the developed instrument had 69 items divided into adherence to guidelines (28 items), clinical decision-making (5 items), workload management (12 items), team behaviour (8 items), information management (6 items), patient integrity and consideration of laymen (4 items) and work routines (6 items). The Cronbach's α values were good, and strong correlations between the overall performance and the instrument were observed.

CONCLUSION

The instrument may be useful for detailed assessment of the team's overall performance, but the numerous items make the use demanding. The instrument is still under development, and more research is needed to determine its psychometric properties.

Bystander automated external defibrillator use and clinical outcomes after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

To systematically review studies comparing bystander automated external defibrillator (AED) use to no AED use in regard to clinical outcomes in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA), and to provide a descriptive summary of studies on the cost-effectiveness of bystander AED use.

METHODS

We searched Medline, Embase, the Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for randomized trials and observational studies published before June 1, 2017. Meta-analyses were performed for patients with all rhythms, shockable rhythms, and non-shockable rhythms.

RESULTS

Forty-four observational studies, 3 randomized trials, and 13 cost-effectiveness studies were included. Meta-analysis of 6 observational studies without critical risk of bias showed that bystander AED use was associated with survival to hospital discharge (all rhythms OR: 1.73 [95%CI: 1.36, 2.18], shockable rhythms OR: 1.66 [95%CI: 1.54, 1.79]) and favorable neurological outcome (all rhythms OR: 2.12 [95%CI: 1.36, 3.29], shockable rhythms OR: 2.37 [95%CI: 1.58, 3.57]). There was no association between bystander AED use and neurological outcome for non-shockable rhythms (OR: 0.76 [95%CI: 0.10, 5.87]). The Public-Access Defibrillation trial found higher survival rates when volunteers were equipped with AEDs. The other trials found no survival difference, although their study settings differed. The quality of evidence was low for randomized trials and very low for observational studies. AEDs were cost-effective in settings with high cardiac arrest incidence, with most studies reporting ratios < $100,000 per quality-adjusted life years.

CONCLUSIONS

The evidence supports the association between bystander AED use and improved clinical outcomes, although the quality of evidence was low to very low.

Effective deployment of public-access automated external defibrillators to improve out-of-hospital cardiac arrest outcomes

Out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is a major health concern in Japan and other developed countries with aging populations. Improvements in OHCA outcomes require streamlining the chain of survival. Deployment of public‐access automated external defibrillators (PADs) and defibrillation by bystanders is one strategy that may streamline the chain by reducing the time to defibrillation in individuals with shockable rhythms. Although the effectiveness of PAD programs in increasing survival to discharge has been reported, there have been criticisms and concerns about the small population impact, cost‐effectiveness, and potential negative impact on those with nonshockable rhythms. This article reviews relevant literature regarding the effectiveness and concerns regarding PAD for OHCA.

Randomised crossover trial of rate feedback and force during chest compressions for paediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of visual feedback on rate of chest compressions, secondarily relating the forces used.

DESIGN

Randomised crossover trial.

SETTING

Tertiary teaching hospital.

SUBJECTS

Fifty trained hospital staff.

INTERVENTIONS

A thin sensor-mat placed over the manikin's chest measured rate and force. Rescuers applied compressions to the same paediatric manikin for two sessions. During one session they received visual feedback comparing their real-time rate with published guidelines.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary: compression rate. Secondary: compression and residual forces.

RESULTS

Rate of chest compressions (compressions per minute (compressions per minute; cpm)) varied widely (mean (SD) 111 (13), range 89-168), with a fourfold difference in variation during session 1 between those receiving and not receiving feedback (108 (5) vs 120 (20)). The interaction of session by feedback order was highly significant, indicating that this difference in mean rate between sessions was 14 cpm less (95% CI -22 to -5, p=0.002) in those given feedback first compared with those given it second. Compression force (N) varied widely (mean (SD) 306 (94); range 142-769). Those receiving feedback second (as opposed to first) used significantly lower force (adjusted mean difference -80 (95% CI -128 to -32), p=0.002). Mean residual force (18 N, SD 12, range 0-49) was unaffected by the intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

While visual feedback restricted excessive compression rates to within the prescribed range, applied force remained widely variable. The forces required may differ with growth, but such variation treating one manikin is alarming. Feedback technologies additionally measuring force (effort) could help to standardise and define effective treatments throughout childhood.

Improvement of lay rescuer chest compressions with a novel audiovisual feedback device : A randomized trial

BACKGROUND

Bystander actions and skills determine among others the outcome of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. However, the depth and rate of chest compressions (CC) are difficult to estimate for laypeople and poor CC quality may result. Our study aimed to evaluate the impact of a new feedback device on CC performance by laypeople. The percentage of CC with both correct rate and correct depth of all CC served as primary endpoint.

METHODS

Forty-eight subjects with no medical background performed 2 min of CC on a manikin with and without a novel feedback device (TrueCPR™, Physio-Control, Redmond, Wash.). The device uses a novel, non-accelerometer-based technology. Participants were randomized into two groups. Group 1 performed a 2-min CC trial first with audiovisual feedback followed by a trial with no feedback information, while group 2 performed the task in reverse order.

RESULTS

The absolute percentage of CC with correct rate and depth was significantly higher with the use of the device (59 ± 34% vs. 15 ± 21%, p < 0.0001). The longest interval without correct CC was significantly decreased (76.5 s vs. 27.5 s, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The quality of CC carried out by laypeople is significantly improved with the use of a new feedback device. The device may be useful for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by laypeople and for educational purposes.

Effectiveness of feedback with a smartwatch for high-quality chest compressions during adult cardiac arrest: A randomized controlled simulation study

Previous studies have demonstrated the potential for using smartwatches with a built-in accelerometer as feedback devices for high-quality chest compression during cardiopulmonary resuscitation. However, to the best of our knowledge, no previous study has reported the effects of this feedback on chest compressions in action. A randomized, parallel controlled study of 40 senior medical students was conducted to examine the effect of chest compression feedback via a smartwatch during cardiopulmonary resuscitation of manikins. A feedback application was developed for the smartwatch, in which visual feedback was provided for chest compression depth and rate. Vibrations from smartwatch were used to indicate the chest compression rate. The participants were randomly allocated to the intervention and control groups, and they performed chest compressions on manikins for 2 min continuously with or without feedback, respectively. The proportion of accurate chest compression depth (≥5 cm and ≤6 cm) was assessed as the primary outcome, and the chest compression depth, chest compression rate, and the proportion of complete chest decompression (≤1 cm of residual leaning) were recorded as secondary outcomes. The proportion of accurate chest compression depth in the intervention group was significantly higher than that in the control group (64.6±7.8% versus 43.1±28.3%; p = 0.02). The mean compression depth and rate and the proportion of complete chest decompressions did not differ significantly between the two groups (all p>0.05). Cardiopulmonary resuscitation-related feedback via a smartwatch could provide assistance with respect to the ideal range of chest compression depth, and this can easily be applied to patients with out-of-hospital arrest by rescuers who wear smartwatches.

The effect of step stool use and provider height on CPR quality during pediatric cardiac arrest: A simulation-based multicentre study

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to explore whether a) step stool use is associated with improved cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) quality; b) provider adjusted height is associated with improved CPR quality; and if associations exist, c) determine whether just-in-time (JIT) CPR training and/or CPR visual feedback attenuates the effect of height and/or step stool use on CPR quality.

METHODS

We analysed data from a trial of simulated cardiac arrests with three study arms: No intervention; CPR visual feedback; and JIT CPR training. Step stool use was voluntary. We explored the association between 1) step stool use and CPR quality, and 2) provider adjusted height and CPR quality. Adjusted height was defined as provider height + 23 cm (if step stool was used). Below-average height participants were ≤ gender-specific average height; the remainder were above average height. We assessed for interaction between study arm and both adjusted height and step stool use.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty-four subjects participated; 1,230 30-second epochs of CPR were analysed. Step stool use was associated with improved compression depth in below-average (female, p=0.007; male, p<0.001) and above-average (female, p=0.001; male, p<0.001) height providers. There is an association between adjusted height and compression depth (p<0.001). Visual feedback attenuated the effect of height (p=0.025) on compression depth; JIT training did not (p=0.918). Visual feedback and JIT training attenuated the effect of step stool use (p<0.001) on compression depth.

CONCLUSIONS

Step stool use is associated with improved compression depth regardless of height. Increased provider height is associated with improved compression depth, with visual feedback attenuating the effects of height and step stool use.

Clinical Performance Feedback to Paramedics: What They Receive and What They Need

OBJECTIVES

Performance feedback is not always well utilized in healthcare. To more effectively incorporate it, we used a discussion of current feedback systems to explore paramedics' perceived needs regarding feedback and to understand what feedback would improve their performance as healthcare providers.

METHODS

We used a qualitative methodology with semistructured interviews of paramedics to explore perceptions and desires for feedback. Interpretive descriptive analysis was performed with continuous recruitment until thematic saturation was achieved. Themes were identified and a coding system was developed by two investigators separately and merged by consensus. The analysis was audited by a third investigator, and a member check was performed.

RESULTS

Many different ideas were discussed that were analyzed to develop several major recurrent themes. One such theme was positive perception of feedback by paramedics. Despite the positive perceptions discussed, the shortcomings of current systems were also frequently discussed as were perceived barriers to receiving meaningful feedback. The idea of following up on patients' courses/outcomes also arose frequently during the interviews. In addition, feedback and its interaction with mental health emerged as a theme in terms of its potential for both positive and negative impact. Finally, suggestions about the future were also common with paramedics providing thoughts regarding what future systems could be developed or what changes could be made to provide them with meaningful feedback.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings show how paramedics perceive feedback, but still note how barriers may impair its uptake and how it may affect their mental health. Our participants also made recommendations about what they would want to see in future feedback systems. This information can provide the foundation to improve current feedback systems or structure new ones to allow paramedics to continue to develop themselves as healthcare professionals.

Quality of chest compressions by healthcare professionals using real-time audiovisual feedback during in-hospital cardiopulmonary resuscitation

INTRODUCTION

A high quality of chest compressions, e.g. sufficient depth (5-6 cm) and rate (100-120 per min), has been associated with survival. The patient's underlay affects chest compression depth. Depth and rate can be assessed by feedback systems to guide rescuers during cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to describe the quality of chest compressions by healthcare professionals using real-time audiovisual feedback during in-hospital cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

METHOD

An observational descriptive study was performed including 63 cardiac arrest events with a resuscitation attempt. Data files were recorded by Zoll AED Pro, and reviewed by RescueNet Code Review software. The events were analysed according to depth, rate, quality of chest compressions and underlay.

RESULTS

Across events, 12.7% (median) of the compressions had a depth of 5-6 cm. Compression depth of >6 cm was measured in 70.1% (median). The underlay could be identified from the electronic patient records in 54 events. The median compression depth was 4.5 cm (floor) and 6.7 cm (mattress). Across events, 57.5% (median) of the compressions were performed with a median frequency of 100-120 compressions/min and the most common problem was a compression rate of <100 (median=22.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

Chest compression quality was poor according to the feedback system. However, the distribution of compression depth with regard to underlay points towards overestimation of depth when treating patients on a mattress. Audiovisual feedback devices ought to be further developed. Healthcare professionals need to be aware of the strengths and weaknesses of their devices.

Assessing practical skills in cardiopulmonary resuscitation: Discrepancy between standard visual evaluation and a mechanical feedback device

This paper aims to analyze agreement in the assessment of external chest compressions (ECC) by 3 human raters and dedicated feedback software.While 54 volunteer health workers (medical transport technicians), trained and experienced in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), performed a complete sequence of basic CPR maneuvers on a manikin incorporating feedback software (Laerdal PC v 4.2.1 Skill Reporting Software) (L), 3 expert CPR instructors (A, B, and C) visually assessed ECC, evaluating hand placement, compression depth, chest decompression, and rate. We analyzed the concordance among the raters (A, B, and C) and between the raters and L with Cohen's kappa coefficient (K), intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), Bland-Altman plots, and survival-agreement plots.The agreement (expressed as Cohen's K and ICC) was ≥0.54 in only 3 instances and was ≤0.45 in more than half. Bland-Altman plots showed significant dispersion of the data. The survival-agreement plot showed a high degree of discordance between pairs of raters (A-L, B-L, and C-L) when the level of tolerance was set low.In visual assessment of ECC, there is a significant lack of agreement among accredited raters and significant dispersion and inconsistency in data, bringing into question the reliability and validity of this method of measurement.

Does an individualized feedback mechanism improve quality of out-of-hospital CPR?

BACKGROUND

Despite its prevalence, survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest remains low. High quality CPR has been associated with improved survival in cardiac arrest patients. In early 2014, a program was initiated to provide feedback on CPR quality to prehospital providers after every treated cardiac arrest.

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether individualized CPR feedback was associated with improved CPR quality measures in the prehospital setting.

METHODS

This before and after retrospective review included all treated adult out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in patients in an urban community. Data was compared prior to and after the initiation of the CPR feedback program. We compared the percent of encounters reaching the system defined benchmarks as well as the average values for compression fraction, compression rate, compression depth, and pre-shock pause in the before period compared to the after period.

RESULTS

There were 159 encounters in the before period and 117 in the after. Compared to the before group, the after group had higher average compression rates (111.2/min vs 113.8/min; p=0.042), increased compression depths (4.9cm vs 5.6cm; p<0.001), and increased rates of benchmark achievement for compression depth greater than 5cm (48.1% vs 72.6%; p<0.001). No significant difference was noted in pre-shock pause (21.4s vs 14.7s; p=0.068). Additionally, no difference was noted between groups for compression fraction, though goal achievement was high in both groups.

CONCLUSION

We found that individual CPR feedback is associated with marginally improved quality of CPR in the prehospital setting. Further investigation with larger samples is warranted to better quantify this effect.

Timely bystander CPR improves outcomes despite longer EMS times

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to determine the impact of bystander CPR on clinical outcomes in patients with increasing response time from collapse to EMS response.

METHODS

A population-based observational study was conducted in patients with witnessed out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) of presumed cardiac etiology from 2012 to 2014. The time interval from collapse to CPR by EMS providers was categorized into quartile groups: fastest group (<4min), fast group (4 to <8min), late group (8 to <15min), and latest group (15 to <30min). The primary outcome was hospital discharge and the secondary outcome was survival with good neurological outcome. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the interaction between bystander CPR and the time interval from collapse to CPR by EMS providers.

RESULTS

A total of 15,354 OHCAs were analyzed. Bystander CPR was performed in 8591 (56.0%). Survival to hospital discharge occurred in 1632 (10.6%) and favorable neurological outcome in 996 (6.5%). In an interaction model of bystander CPR, compared to the fastest group, adjusted odds ratios (AORs) (95% CIs) for survival to discharge were 0.89 (0.66-1.20) in the fast group, 0.76 (0.57-1.02) in the late group, and 0.52 (0.37-0.73) in the latest group. For favorable neurological outcome, AORs were 1.12 (0.77-1.62) in the fast group, 0.90 (0.62-1.30) in the late group, 0.59 (0.38-0.91) in the latest group.

CONCLUSION

The survival from OHCA decreases as the ambulance response time increases. The increase in mortality and worsening neurologic outcomes appear to be mitigated in those patients who receive bystander CPR.

Real-time visual feedback during training improves laypersons' CPR quality: a randomized controlled manikin study

OBJECTIVE

The chances of surviving an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest depend on early and high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Our aim is to verify whether the use of feedback devices during laypersons' CPR training improves chest compression quality.

METHODS

Laypersons totalling 450 participating in Basic Life Support and Automated External Defibrillation (BLS/AED) courses were randomly divided into three groups: group No Feedback (NF) attended a course without any feedback, group Short Feedback (SF) a course with 1-minute training with real-time visual feedback, and group Long Feedback (LF) a course with 10-minute training with real-time visual feedback. At the end of each course, we recorded 1 minute of compression-only CPR. The primary end point was the difference in the percentage of compressions performed with correct depth.

RESULTS

There was a significant improvement in the percentage of compressions with correct depth in the groups receiving feedback compared to the other (NF v. LF, p=0.022; NF v. SF, p=0.005). This improvement was also present in the percentage of compressions with a complete chest recoil (71.7% in NF, 86.6% in SF, and 88.8% in LF; p<0.001), compressions with the correct hand position (93.2% in NF, 98.2% in SF, and 99.3% in LF; p<0.001), and in the Total CPR Score (79.4% in NF, 90.2% in SF, and 92.5% in LF; p<0.001). There were no significant differences for all of the parameters between group SF and group LF.

CONCLUSIONS

Real-time visual feedback improves laypersons' CPR quality, and we suggest its use in every BLS/AED course for laypersons because it can help achieve the goals emphasized by the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation recommendations.

Use of a Real-Time Training Software (Laerdal QCPR®) Compared to Instructor-Based Feedback for High-Quality Chest Compressions Acquisition in Secondary School Students: A Randomized Trial

High-quality chest compressions are pivotal to improve survival from cardiac arrest. Basic life support training of school students is an international priority. The aim of this trial was to assess the effectiveness of a real-time training software (Laerdal QCPR^®) compared to a standard instructor-based feedback for chest compressions acquisition in secondary school students. After an interactive frontal lesson about basic life support and high quality chest compressions, 144 students were randomized to two types of chest compressions training: 1) using Laerdal QCPR^® (QCPR group– 72 students) for real-time feedback during chest compressions with the guide of an instructor who considered software data for students’ correction 2) based on standard instructor-based feedback (SF group– 72 students). Both groups had a minimum of a 2-minute chest compressions training session. Students were required to reach a minimum technical skill level before the evaluation. We evaluated all students at 7 days from the training with a 2-minute chest compressions session. The primary outcome was the compression score, which is an overall measure of chest compressions quality calculated by the software expressed as percentage. 125 students were present at the evaluation session (60 from QCPR group and 65 from SF group). Students in QCPR group had a significantly higher compression score (median 90%, IQR 81.9–96.0) compared to SF group (median 67%, IQR 27.7–87.5), p = 0.0003. Students in QCPR group performed significantly higher percentage of fully released chest compressions (71% [IQR 24.5–99.0] vs 24% [IQR 2.5–88.2]; p = 0.005) and better chest compression rate (117.5/min [IQR 106–123.5] vs 125/min [115–135.2]; p = 0.001). In secondary school students, a training for chest compressions based on a real-time feedback software (Laerdal QCPR^®) guided by an instructor is superior to instructor-based feedback training in terms of chest compression technical skill acquisition.

Trial Registration: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616000383460

The association of layperson characteristics with the quality of simulated cardiopulmonary resuscitation performance

BACKGROUND

Few studies have examined the association of layperson characteristics with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) provision. Previous studies suggested provider characteristics, including age and gender, were associated with CPR quality, particularly chest compression (CC) depth. We sought to determine the association of subject characteristics, including age and gender with layperson CPR quality during an unannounced simulated CPR event. We hypothesized shallower CC depth in females, and older-aged subjects.

METHODS

As part of a larger multicenter randomized controlled trial of CPR training for cardiac patients' caregivers, CPR skills were assessed 6 months after training. We analyzed associations between subject characteristics and CC rate, CC depth and no-flow time. Each variable was analyzed independently; significant predictors determined via univariate analysis were assessed in a multivariate regression model.

RESULTS

A total of 521 laypersons completed a 6-month CPR skills assessment and were included in the analysis. Mean age was 51.8±13.7 years, 75% were female, 57% were Caucasian. Overall, mean CC rate was 88.5±25.0 per minute, CC depth was 50.9±2.0 mm, and mean no-flow time was 15.9±2.7 sec/min. CC depth decreased significantly in subjects >62 years (P<0.001). Male subjects performed deeper CCs than female subjects (47.5±1.7 vs. 41.9±0.6, P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

We found that layperson age >62 years and female gender are associated with shallower CC depth.

An Interventional Quality Improvement Study to Assess the Compliance to Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Documentation in an Indian Teaching Hospital

Background

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be performed as per the international guidelines; however, compliance to these guidelines is difficult to assess. This study was conducted to determine the compliance to American Heart Association (2010) guideline on CPR documentation by among resident physicians before and after resident training (two arms).

Methods

This pre-postinterventional quality improvement study was conducted in a referral center, North India. Data of hospitalized in-hospital CPR patients were collected in the form of quality indicators (checklists) as defined by the guideline and compared between two arms of before-after resident training. Residents were given appropriate training in CPR technique as per the guideline. The compliance of CPR documentation was assessed pre- and post-intervention.

Results

The baseline arm compliance of various components of CPR documentation was low. The postintervention arm compliances of all components significantly increased (baseline, 2.5% to postintervention, 15.11%, P = 0.03). Individual components assessed were documentation of assessment of responsiveness (65% to 77.9%, P = 0.19), assessment of breathing (37.5% to 58.1%, P = 0.03), assessment of carotid pulse (62.5% to 79%, P = 0.05), rate of chest compressions (20% to 39.5%, P = 0.04), airway management (62.5% to 82.5%, P = 0.02), and compressions to breaths ratio (12.5% to 31.4%, P = 0.02). Documentation of chest compression rate compared to nondocumentation (12 of 42 vs. 11 of 84, P = 0.04) was independently associated with a higher rate of return of spontaneous circulation. The study however did not show any survival benefits.

Conclusions

This study establishes that the compliance to CPR documentation is poor as assessed by CPR documentation content and quality, which improves after physician training, but not up to the mark level (100%) that may be due to busy Indian hospital settings and human behavioral factors. Due to ethical constraints of live CPR assessment, this document checklist approach may be considered as an internal quality assessment method for CPR compliance. Furthermore, correct instruction in CPR technique along with proper documentation of the procedure is required, followed up with periodic re-education during the residency period and beyond.

Comparison between an instructor-led course and training using a voice advisory manikin in initial cardiopulmonary resuscitation skill acquisition

Objective

We compared training using a voice advisory manikin (VAM) with an instructor-led (IL) course in terms of acquisition of initial cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills, as defined by the 2010 resuscitation guidelines.

Methods

This study was a randomized, controlled, blinded, parallel-group trial. We recruited 82 first-year emergency medical technician students and distributed them randomly into two groups: the IL group (n=41) and the VAM group (n=37). In the IL-group, participants were trained in “single-rescuer, adult CPR” according to the American Heart Association’s Basic Life Support course for healthcare providers. In the VAM group, all subjects received a 20-minute lesson about CPR. After the lesson, each student trained individually with the VAM for 1 hour, receiving real-time feedback. After the training, all subjects were evaluated as they performed basic CPR (30 compressions, 2 ventilations) for 4 minutes.

Results

The proportion of participants with a mean compression depth ≥50 mm was 34.1% in the IL group and 27.0% in the VAM group, and the proportion with a mean compression depth ≥40 mm had increased significantly in both groups compared with ≥50 mm (IL group, 82.9%; VAM group, 86.5%). However, no significant differences were detected between the groups in this regard. The proportion of ventilations of the appropriate volume was relatively low in both groups (IL group, 26.4%; VAM group, 12.5%; P=0.396).

Conclusion

Both methods, the IL training using a practice-while-watching video and the VAM training, facilitated initial CPR skill acquisition, especially in terms of correct chest compression.

Comparison of Chest Compressions Metrics Measured Using the Laerdal Skill Reporter and Q-CPR: A Simulation Study

INTRODUCTION

There has been an increased emphasis on the quality of chest compressions as a part of the cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) bundle of care for recent times. During CPR training, chest compression quality parameters can be measured directly from sensors within a manikin or from external devices placed on the manikin chest that use accelerometer-based technology. The aim of this study was to compare external chest compression data from the manikin-based Laerdal Skill Reporter (LSR) and the accelerometer-based Q-CPR technology, incorporated into the Philips MRx defibrillator, during CPR on a single Resusci Anne Simulator manikin.

METHODS

Each paramedic (n = 15) performed 2 sessions of 2 minutes of chest compressions, with a 2-minute rest period in between sessions. Both over-the-head and from-the-side positions were used on a single manikin. The quality of chest compressions were concurrently measured using both LSR and Philips MRx Q-CPR accelerometer with audiovisual feedback disabled.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the measurement of the number of chest compressions performed in 2 minutes, the compression rate, total number of compressions of adequate depth, or the number of compressions exhibiting leaning between the LSR and the Phillips Q-CPR devices. There was a significant difference in measurement of compression depth (P < 0.0001) and duty cycle (P < 0.0001) with the MRx Q-CPR accelerometer demonstrating both lower compression depth and duty cycle compared with LSR.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no significant difference in most chest compression quality metrics measured between the LSR and the Phillips Q-CPR devices when measured on a manikin. However, there were significant differences in the measurement of duty cycle and also the depth of compressions between the 2 devices with the Phillips Q-CPR device measuring lower depth of compression and duty cycle compared with the LSR device.

Can the British Heart Foundation PocketCPR application improve the performance of chest compressions during bystander resuscitation: A randomised crossover manikin study

This study aims to determine whether the British Heart Foundation PocketCPR training application can improve the depth and rate of chest compression and therefore be confidently recommended for bystander use. A total of 118 candidates were recruited into a randomised crossover manikin trial. Each candidate performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation for 2 min without instruction or performed chest compressions using the PocketCPR application. Candidates then performed a further 2 min of cardiopulmonary resuscitation within the opposite arm. The number of chest compressions performed improved when PocketCPR was used compared to chest compressions when it was not (44.28% vs 40.57%, p < 0.001). The number of chest compressions performed to the required depth was higher in the PocketCPR group (90.86 vs 66.26). The British Heart Foundation PocketCPR application improved the percentage of chest compressions that were performed to the required depth. Despite this, more work is required in order to develop a feedback device that can improve bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation without creating delay.

Impact of a feedback device on chest compression quality during extended manikin CPR: a randomized crossover study

PURPOSES

Chest compressions require physical effort leading to increased fatigue and rapid degradation in the quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation overtime. Despite harmful effect of interrupting chest compressions, current guidelines recommend that rescuers switch every 2 minutes. The impact on the quality of chest compressions during extended cardiopulmonary resuscitation has yet to be assessed.

BASIC PROCEDURES

We conducted randomized crossover study on manikin (ResusciAnne; Laerdal). After randomization, 60 professional emergency rescuers performed 2 × 10 minutes of continuous chest compressions with and without a feedback device (CPRmeter). Efficient compression rate (primary outcome) was defined as the frequency target reached along with depth and leaning at the same time (recorded continuously).

MAIN FINDINGS

The 10-minute mean efficient compression rate was significantly better in the feedback group: 42% vs 21% (P< .001). There was no significant difference between the first (43%) and the tenth minute (36%; P= .068) with feedback. Conversely, a significant difference was evident from the second minute without feedback (35% initially vs 27%; P< .001). The efficient compression rate difference with and without feedback was significant every minute, from the second minute onwards. CPRmeter feedback significantly improved chest compression depth from the first minute, leaning from the second minute and rate from the third minute.

PRINCIPAL CONCLUSIONS

A real-time feedback device delivers longer effective, steadier chest compressions over time. An extrapolation of these results from simulation may allow rescuer switches to be carried out beyond the currently recommended 2 minutes when a feedback device is used.

Using an inertial navigation algorithm and accelerometer to monitor chest compression depth during cardiopulmonary resuscitation

We present an original method using a low cost accelerometer and a Kalman-filter based algorithm to monitor cardiopulmonary resuscitation chest compressions (CC) depth. A three-axis accelerometer connected to a computer was used during CC. A Kalman filter was used to retrieve speed and position from acceleration data. We first tested the algorithm for its accuracy and stability on surrogate data. The device was implemented for CC performed on a manikin. Different accelerometer locations were tested. We used a classical inertial navigation algorithm to reconstruct CPR depth and frequency. The device was found accurate enough to monitor CPR depth and its stability was checked for half an hour without any drift. Average error on displacement was ±0.5mm. We showed that depth measurement was dependent on the device location on the patient or the rescuer. The accuracy and stability of this small low-cost accelerometer coupled to a Kalman-filter based algorithm to reconstruct CC depth and frequency, was found well adapted and could be easily implemented.

Effect of the Cardio First Angel™ device on CPR indices: a randomized controlled clinical trial

Background

A number of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) adjunct devices have been developed to improve the consistency and quality of manual chest compressions. We investigated whether a CPR feedback device would improve CPR quality and consistency, as well as patient survival.

Methods

We conducted a randomized controlled study of patients undergoing CPR for cardiac arrest in the mixed medical-surgical intensive care units of four academic teaching hospitals. Patients were randomized to receive either standard manual CPR or CPR using the Cardio First Angel™ CPR feedback device. Recorded variables included guideline adherence, CPR quality, return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) rates, and CPR-associated morbidity.

Results

A total of 229 subjects were randomized; 149 were excluded; and 80 were included. Patient demographics were similar. Adherence to published CPR guidelines and CPR quality was significantly improved in the intervention group (p < 0.0001), as were ROSC rates (72 % vs. 35 %; p = 0.001). A significant decrease was observed in rib fractures (57 % vs. 85 %; p = 0.02), but not sternum fractures (5 % vs. 17 %; p = 0.15).

Conclusions

Use of the Cardio First Angel™ CPR feedback device improved adherence to published CPR guidelines and CPR quality, and it was associated with increased rates of ROSC. A decrease in rib but not sternum fractures was observed with device use. Further independent prospective validation is warranted to determine if these results are reproducible in other acute care settings.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02394977. Registered on 5 Mar 2015.

Feedback on the Rate and Depth of Chest Compressions during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Using Only Accelerometers

Background

Quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is key to increase survival from cardiac arrest. Providing chest compressions with adequate rate and depth is difficult even for well-trained rescuers. The use of real-time feedback devices is intended to contribute to enhance chest compression quality. These devices are typically based on the double integration of the acceleration to obtain the chest displacement during compressions. The integration process is inherently unstable and leads to important errors unless boundary conditions are applied for each compression cycle. Commercial solutions use additional reference signals to establish these conditions, requiring additional sensors. Our aim was to study the accuracy of three methods based solely on the acceleration signal to provide feedback on the compression rate and depth.

Materials and Methods

We simulated a CPR scenario with several volunteers grouped in couples providing chest compressions on a resuscitation manikin. Different target rates (80, 100, 120, and 140 compressions per minute) and a target depth of at least 50 mm were indicated. The manikin was equipped with a displacement sensor. The accelerometer was placed between the rescuer’s hands and the manikin’s chest. We designed three alternatives to direct integration based on different principles (linear filtering, analysis of velocity, and spectral analysis of acceleration). We evaluated their accuracy by comparing the estimated depth and rate with the values obtained from the reference displacement sensor.

Results

The median (IQR) percent error was 5.9% (2.8–10.3), 6.3% (2.9–11.3), and 2.5% (1.2–4.4) for depth and 1.7% (0.0–2.3), 0.0% (0.0–2.0), and 0.9% (0.4–1.6) for rate, respectively. Depth accuracy depended on the target rate (p < 0.001) and on the rescuer couple (p < 0.001) within each method.

Conclusions

Accurate feedback on chest compression depth and rate during CPR is possible using exclusively the chest acceleration signal. The algorithm based on spectral analysis showed the best performance. Despite these encouraging results, further research should be conducted to asses the performance of these algorithms with clinical data.

Accuracy of instructor assessment of chest compression quality during simulated resuscitation

Objectives

The 2010 American Heart Association Guidelines stress the importance of high quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) as a predictor of survival from cardiac arrest. However, resuscitation training is often facilitated and evaluated by instructors without access to objective measures of CPR quality. This study aims to determine whether instructors experienced in the area of adult resuscitation (emergency department staff and senior residents) can accurately assess the quality of chest compressions as a component of their global assessment of a simulated resuscitation scenario.

Methods

This is a prospective observational study in which objective chest compression quality data (rate, depth, and fraction) were collected from the simulation manikin and compared to subjective instructor assessment. Data were collected during weekly simulation training sessions for residents, medical students, and nursing students.

Results

We included data from 24 simulated resuscitation scenarios assessed by 1 of 15 instructors. Subjective assessment of chest compression quality identified an adequate compression rate (100–120 compressions per minute) with a sensitivity of 0.17 (confidence interval [CI] 0.02–0.32) and specificity of 0.06 (CI −0.04–0.15), adequate depth (>50 mm) with a sensitivity of 0 and specificity of 0.38 (CI 0.18–0.57), and adequate fraction (>80%) with a sensitivity of 1 and a specificity of 0.25 (CI 0.08–0.42).

Conclusion

Instructor assessment of chest compression rate, depth, and fraction demonstrates poor sensitivity and specificity when compared to the data from the simulation manikin. These results support the use of objective and technologically supported measures of chest compression quality for feedback during resuscitation education using simulators.

Comparison of two training programmes on paramedic-delivered CPR performance

OBJECTIVE

To compare CPR performance in two groups of paramedics who received CPR training from two different CPR training programmes.

METHODS

Conducted in June 2014 at the Hamad Medical Corporation Ambulance Service, the national ambulance service of the State of Qatar, the CPR performances of 149 new paramedic recruits were evaluated after they had received training from either a traditional CPR programme or a tailored CPR programme. Both programmes taught the same content but differed in the way in which this content was delivered to learners. Exclusive to the tailored programme was mandatory precourse work, continuous assessments, a locally developed CPR instructional video and pedagogical activities tailored to the background education and learner style preferences of paramedics. At the end of each respective training programme, a single examiner who was blinded to the type of training paramedics had received, rated them as competent or non-competent on basic life support skills, condition specific skills, specific overall skills and non-technical skills during a simulated out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) assessment.

RESULTS

Paramedics who received CPR training with the tailored programme were rated competent 70.9% of the time, compared with paramedics who attended the traditional programme and who achieved this rating 7.9% of the time (p<0.001). Specific improvements were seen in the time required to detect cardiac arrest, chest compression quality, and time to first monitored rhythm and delivered shock.

CONCLUSIONS

In an OHCA scenario, CPR performance rated as competent was significantly higher when training was received using a tailored CPR programme.

Blood Pressure Directed Booster Trainings Improve Intensive Care Unit Provider Retention of Excellent Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Skills

OBJECTIVES

Brief, intermittent cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training sessions, "Booster Trainings," improve CPR skill acquisition and short-term retention. The objective of this study was to incorporate arterial blood pressure (ABP) tracings into Booster Trainings to improve CPR skill retention. We hypothesized that ABP-directed CPR "Booster Trainings" would improve intensive care unit (ICU) provider 3-month retention of excellent CPR skills without need for interval retraining.

METHODS

A CPR manikin creating a realistic relationship between chest compression depth and ABP was used for training/testing. Thirty-six ICU providers were randomized to brief, bedside ABP-directed CPR manikin skill retrainings: (1) Booster Plus (ABP visible during training and testing) versus (2) Booster Alone (ABP visible only during training, not testing) versus (3) control (testing, no intervention). Subjects completed skill tests pretraining (baseline), immediately after training (acquisition), and then retention was assessed at 12 hours, 3 and 6 months. The primary outcome was retention of excellent CPR skills at 3 months. Excellent CPR was defined as systolic blood pressure of 100 mm Hg or higher and compression rate 100 to 120 per minute.

RESULTS

Overall, 14 of 24 (58%) participants acquired excellent CPR skills after their initial training (Booster Plus 75% vs 50% Booster Alone, P = 0.21). Adjusted for age, ABP-trained providers were 5.2× more likely to perform excellent CPR after the initial training (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.3-21.2; P = 0.02), and to retain these skills at 12 hours (adjusted odds ratio, 4.4; 95% CI, 1.3-14.9; P = 0.018) and 3 months (adjusted odds ratio, 4.1; 95% CI, 1.2-13.9; P = 0.023) when compared to baseline performance.

CONCLUSIONS

The ABP-directed CPR booster trainings improved ICU provider 3-month retention of excellent CPR skills without the need for interval retraining.

Does real-time objective feedback and competition improve performance and quality in manikin CPR training--a prospective observational study from several European EMS

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have reported that the quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is important for patient survival. Real time objective feedback during manikin training has been shown to improve CPR performance. Objective measurement could facilitate competition and help motivate participants to improve their CPR performance. The aims of this study were to investigate whether real time objective feedback on manikins helps improve CPR performance and whether competition between separate European Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and between participants at each EMS helps motivation to train.

METHODS

Ten European EMS took part in the study and was carried out in two stages. At Stage 1, each EMS provided 20 pre-hospital professionals. A questionnaire was completed and standardised assessment scenarios were performed for adult and infant out of hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). CPR performance was objectively measured and recorded but no feedback given. Between Stage 1 and 2, each EMS was given access to manikins for 6 months and instructed on how to use with objective real-time CPR feedback available. Stage 2 was undertaken and was a repeat of Stage 1 with a questionnaire with additional questions relating to usefulness of feedback and the competition nature of the study (using a 10 point Likert score). The EMS that improved the most from Stage 1 to Stage 2 was declared the winner. An independent samples Student t-test was used to analyse the objective CPR metrics with the significance level taken as p < 0.05.

RESULTS

Overall mean Improvement of CPR performance from Stage 1 to Stage 2 was significant. The improvement was greater for the infant assessment. The participants thought the real-time feedback very useful (mean score of 8.5) and very easy to use (mean score of 8.2). Competition between EMS organisations recorded a mean score of 5.8 and competition between participants recorded a mean score of 6.0.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that the use of real time objective feedback can significantly help improve CPR performance. Competition, especially between participants, appeared to encourage staff to practice and this study suggests that competition might have a useful role to help motivate staff to perform CPR training.