COMPARISON OF CARDIOPULMONARY-RESUSCITATION TECHNIQUES USING VIDEO CAMERA RECORDINGS

Objective-To use video recordings to compare the performance of resusc itation teams in relation to their previous training in cardiac resusc itation. Methods-Over a 10 month period all cardiopulmonary resuscitat ions carried out in an accident and emergency (A&E) resuscitation room were videotaped. The following variables were monitored: (1) time to perform three defibrillatory shocks; (2) time to give intravenous adre naline (centrally or peripherally); (3) the numbers and grade of medic al and nursing staff involved in the resuscitation; (4) the experience and training of these personnel. Results-Of 101 resuscitations record ed, 69 were carried out by the A&E team alone and 32 by the hospital c ardiac arrest team. Resuscitation procedures were carried out signific antly more rapidly by the former. Skills and protocols were most effec tively used when the resuscitation team was led by an experienced doct or who had received specific training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation , that is, Advanced Life Support course (ALS) or Advanced Cardiac Life Support course (ACLS). Such an individual was always present at A&E t eam resuscitations but in only 6% of cardiac arrest team resuscitation s. Conclusions-ALS course completion should be regarded as a vital par t of the training of any doctor involved in cardiopulmonary resuscitat ion.