Resuscitation
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After return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) from cardiac arrest, profound myocardial stunning and systemic inflammation may cause hemodynamic alterations; however, the prevalence of post-ROSC hemodynamic instability and the strength of association with outcome have not been established. We tested the hypothesis that exposure to arterial hypotension after ROSC occurs commonly (>50%) and is an independent predictor of death. ⋯ Early exposure to arterial hypotension after ROSC was common and an independent predictor of death. These data suggest that post-ROSC hypotension could potentially represent a therapeutic target in post-cardiac arrest care.
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Comparative Study
External artifacts by advanced life support providers misleading automated external defibrillators.
The ECG analysis algorithm of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) shows reduced sensitivity and specificity in the presence of external artifacts. Therefore, ECG analyses are preceded by voice prompts. We investigated if advanced life support (ALS) providers follow these prompts, and the consequences if they do not. ⋯ External artifacts were frequently found, sometimes leading to important errors. Consequently, more training is needed, especially for ALS providers.
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The only large-scale report (1988) by the Israeli national ambulance service Magen David Adom (MDA) on the outcome of cardiac arrest victims who underwent cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by paramedics called for more frequent and more promptly initiated CPR and shorter time to arrival of paramedic care to improve survival. We report the 1987-2007 experience of resuscitation of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest victims who were 'SHL'-Telemedicine subscribers and who underwent CPR by SHL-Telemedicine mobile intensive care units (MICUs) personnel or under their instructions. ⋯ 'SHL'-Telemedicine's policy of bi-monthly contact with its subscribers led to heightened awareness of warning signs and need for rapid summoning of medical assistance in the setting of out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest.
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While lower socioeconomic status is associated with lower level of education and increased incidence of cardiovascular diseases, the impact of socioeconomic status on out-of-hospital cardiac arrest outcomes is unclear. We used residential property values as a proxy for socioeconomic status to determine if there was an association with: (1) bystander CPR rates and (2) survival to hospital discharge for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. ⋯ This is the largest study showing an association between socioeconomic status and survival, and the first study showing an association with bystander CPR. Our findings suggest targeting CPR training among lower socioeconomic groups.
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Determine anesthesiologists' knowledge of the 2005 American Heart Association (AHA) Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) recommendations. ⋯ Deficiencies exist in the knowledge of current AHA PALS guidelines among anesthesiologists. Formal resuscitation training programs should be considered in ongoing continuing medical education.