Continuous Chest Compression CPR

[GB]

For those of you that have not yet been intorduced to Continuous Chest Compression CPR here's a U-tube clip that shows how it's done. Check and see if there's a class area.

Continuous Chest Compression CPR - Mayo Clinic Presentation
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5huVSebZpM


GB

[Greg Newton]

Hey Gary,

What's your take on continuous compression CPR? Like a lot of CPR instructors and First Responders I have mixed feelings on it, although, for a lay responder, this might be the best opportunity to save someone's life before an AED and EMS can arrive to continue the process.

On the other hand, I feel they keep watering down the standards for CPR and First Aid and I am not sure this is a good thing.

Greg

[GB]

Greg,

The data shows that Continuous Compression CPR is saving lives and is more effective than the previously taught CPR.

My first advanced first aid class was in 1977. At that time we were taught to start CPR with a “thump” to the chest. From time to time you will see this done in a rerun of a TV show or movie from that era. Over the years the procedure has changed – 15 compressions to 2 breaths – then the powers that be kept reviewing the data that indicated that compressions were more important than previously thought and CPR was taught 30 compressions to 2 breaths. The data showed that more lives were being saved leading to the new “hard and fast” compressions only CPR shown in the video.

EMS professionals have local protocols that must be followed and have more tools, OPAs, NPAs, O2, Non-rebreather masks, AEDs, 12 lead monitors, to work with than the man or woman on the street. So EMS may be required to do more than just compressions, continuous CCPR with supplemental O2 for 2 minutes then AED, but as far as I know all are following the hard and fast, continuous protocol.

In discussing this with your students you can point to how important their report righting and documentation is. Documentation from “the field” has a big part in influencing the studies that lead to these kinds of changes, continuous improvement.


GB