Resuscitation
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Letter Case Reports
Bacterial translocation after mild therapeutic hypothermia.
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Technical data now gathered by automated external defibrillators (AEDs) allows closer evaluation of the behavior of defibrillation shocks administered during out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. We analyzed technical data from a large case series to evaluate the change in transthoracic impedance between shocks, and to assess the heterogeneity of the probability of successful defibrillation across the population. ⋯ Impedance change between consecutive shocks is minimal and inconsistent. Therefore, to increase current of a subsequent shock requires an increase of the energy setting. Distribution of failed shocks is far from random. First shock defibrillation failure is often predictive of low efficacy for subsequent shocks.
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Review
The use of CPR feedback/prompt devices during training and CPR performance: A systematic review.
In lay persons and health care providers performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), does the use of CPR feedback/prompt devices when compared to no device improve CPR skill acquisition, retention, and real life performance? ⋯ There is good evidence supporting the use of CPR feedback/prompt devices during CPR training to improve CPR skill acquisition and retention. Their use in clinical practice as part of an overall strategy to improve the quality of CPR may be beneficial. The accuracy of devices to measure compression depth should be calibrated to take account of the stiffness of the support surface upon which CPR is being performed (e.g. floor/mattress). Further studies are needed to determine if these devices improve patient outcomes.