For the past two years, people have been scrambling about and one-upping each other when it comes to finding proof that the whole slew of CPR procedure is better than the Compression-Only CPR (COCPR). Although both are equally dependable ways of making sure that the patient makes it at least until the paramedics arrive, a number of studies seem to indicate that the formal CPR provides a more long-term solution compared to COCPR. Recently, however, it seems there is still a better method than the two.
Researchers from the University of Minnesota Medical School have come up with two devices that is able to increase the likelihood of someone surviving a cardiac arrest and retaining normal brain function by as much as 50%. The devices were a result of a 5-year study conducted by the said researchers. By using the two devices at the same time, researchers have found out that such major organs as the heart and the brain are able to get thrice the amount of blood supply should the responder be using traditional or standard CPR procedure. Of course, this means that tissue necrosis is averted. The researchers assert that, with the standard, manual CPR, the victim is only able to receive about 25% of the required blood supply in order to keep brain and heart functions intact. Although this is significant, it is not efficient in ensuring the health of the brain as well as other major organs of the victim on a long-term basis.
The first device in the duo is named ResQPump and is responsible for lifting the chest of the victim after each compression in order to simulate blood flow. It comes with a suction cup that attached to the patient’s chest as well as a handle that would help the responder lift the victim’s chest. The second device, on the other hand, is called the ResQPOD. This device is responsible for making sure that air does not go rushing into the victim’s lungs as this could cause suffocation. The ResQPOD comes with a face mask as well as a breathing tube. By using both devices, responders would be able to easily initiate artificial circulation of the blood thus preserving brain functions as well as those functions of a number of major organs. What’s more, with the devices in place, responders can conserve their energy and continue administering CPR via the device until paramedics arrive or the patient has been revived. This can be seen as a great step in terms of use of existing technology. Both of the devices have been manufactured by the Advanced Circulatory Systems whose main headquarters is based in Minnesota.
The downside of this situation, however, is that the devices have not yet been approved for use by the American Heart Association, or AHA.
Get to know more about CPR as well as other life-saving techniques by attending the CPR training and certification program provided by Citywide CPR.
