Resuscitation
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This study retrospectively analyzed the pattern of sodium bicarbonate (SB) use during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the Brain Resuscitation Clinical Trial III (BRCT III). BRCT III was a prospective clinical trial, which compared high-dose to standard-dose epinephrine during CPR. SB use was left optional in the study protocol. ⋯ Therefore, if SB is used, earlier administration may be considered. Contrary to physiological rationale, clinical decisions regarding SB use did not seem to take into consideration the duration of pre-ACLS hypoxia times. We suggest that guidelines for SB use during CPR should emphasize the importance of pre-ACLS hypoxia time in contributing to metabolic acidosis and should be more specific in defining the duration of "protracted CPR or long resuscitative efforts", the most frequent indication for SB administration.
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Prompt and effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is the first link in the chain of survival following cardiac arrest. We assessed a new device, the CPR-Ezy (Medteq Innovations Pty Ltd., Brisbane, Australia), to aid timing and effectiveness of external cardiac compressions (ECC), by 32 subjects who had prior community-based training in CPR. ⋯ Effectiveness of compressions was also improved over the whole time period, especially so in the last minute. We conclude that the CPR-Ezy can improve timing and effectiveness of ECC, and reduce the effects of resuscitator fatigue, in community-trained subjects.
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Comparative Study
Improving the effectiveness of continuous closed chest compressions: an exploratory study.
This study was carried out to establish the length of time over which an individual can maintain effective chest compressions and the most effective pattern of rest and handover among a team. The continuing effectiveness of chest compressions was compared between groups of 2 or 3 rescuers performing chest compressions for 1, 2 or 3 min during scenarios lasting 18 min. Evaluation of the effectiveness of compressions was achieved using a computerised resuscitation manikin (Laerdal/Skillmeter) on a hospital trolley. Twenty-one volunteers competent in basic life support participated. The results were analysed using one-way analysis of variance and Dunnett's contrast of the various scenarios. The results demonstrated that a three person team delivering 1 min periods of chest compressions in rotation is significantly better than other sequences at 5 min and beyond (P<0.0001). At 18 min 91.5% of all chest compressions delivered by this three person team were greater than 70% effective. There was no significant difference between the first and final set of chest compressions. ⋯ Continuous chest compressions performed for 1 min, preferably by three rescuers in rotation, maintain a high level of effectiveness. Longer periods of chest compressions should be discouraged.
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Comparative Study
HBOC-201 improves survival in a swine model of hemorrhagic shock and liver injury.
Blunt abdominal trauma that leads to hemorrhagic shock and cardiac arrest is almost always fatal in the prehospital setting. The current study investigated whether a hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier (HBOC-201) could maintain organ viability during an exsanguinating liver injury and allow for prolonged survival. This hypothesis was tested in a large animal model that simulated blunt abdominal trauma with major organ injury. ⋯ HBOC resuscitation during liver bleeding in a swine model of hemorrhagic shock and liver injury allowed for 96 h survival. No fluid or HES in the same model was fatal.
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Hanging as a method of attempting suicide is increasing in incidence. A retrospective review of victims of hanging injuries presenting to our institution over a 5-year period was performed. Forty-two cases were reviewed. ⋯ There was an 88% survival rate, with a low incidence (5%) of poor neurological outcome. The Glasgow Coma Score at scene or on arrival at hospital was found to be a prognostic indicator. Victims without spontaneous cardiac output at scene did not survive, even if cardiopulmonary resuscitation was successful initially.