Resuscitation
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Pulmonary Embolism (PE) is a relatively common cardiovascular condition, occasionally and tragically manifesting as Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). The natural history of SCA complicating PE has been poorly evaluated.In this study, we described the management and outcome of PE-related SCA. ⋯ PE is responsible of approximately 3% of hospitalizations for SCA. Thrombolysis was associated with an increased survival in this population, reinforcing current guidelines advocating for such treatment in PE-related SCA.
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Waveform capnography is considered the gold standard for verification of proper endotracheal tube placement, but current guidelines caution that it is unreliable in low-perfusion states such as cardiac arrest. Recent case reports found that long-deceased cadavers can produce capnographic waveforms. The purpose of this study was to determine the predictive value of waveform capnography for endotracheal tube placement verification and detection of misplacement using a cadaveric experimental model. ⋯ Though current guidelines question the reliability of waveform capnography for verifying endotracheal tube location during low-perfusion states such as cardiac arrest, our findings suggest that it is highly sensitive and specific.
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Cardiac arrest associated with drowning is a major public health concern with limited research available on outcome. This investigation aims to define the population at risk, and identify factors associated with neurologically favourable survival. ⋯ Neurologically favourable survival after drowning remains low but is improved by bystander CPR. Shockable rhythms were uncommon and not associated with improved outcomes.
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Performing advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) in the cardiac catheterization laboratory (CCL) is challenging. Mechanical chest compression (MCC) devices deliver compressions in a small space, allowing for simultaneous percutaneous coronary intervention and reduced radiation exposure to rescuers. In refractory cases, MCC devices allow rescuers to initiate percutaneous mechanical circulatory support (MCS) and extracorporeal life support (ECLS) during resuscitation. This study sought to assess the efficacy and safety of MCC when compared to manual compressions in the CCL. ⋯ Use of MCC during resuscitation of cardiac arrest in the CCL increases the rate of ROSC. Simultaneous implantation of MCS, including percutaneous ECLS, is feasible and safe during MCC-assisted resuscitation in the CCL.
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Delivery room resuscitation of very low birth weight infants can involve use of endotracheal or intravenous epinephrine. Data of the past 19 years were reviewed to identify the usage of epinephrine in delivery room and identify characteristics of these babies. ⋯ Neonates with lower birth weight and younger gestational age were more likely to receive epinephrine during resuscitation at birth. Use of epinephrine in delivery room was associated with lower survival and severe intraventricular hemorrhage among very low birth weight infants.