Does dispatcher-assisted bystander CPR improve outcomes from adult out-of-hospital cardiac arrest?

Ffion Barham; Stephanie Bailey; Blair Graham

doi:10.29045/14784726.2019.03.3.4.23

Does dispatcher-assisted bystander CPR improve outcomes from adult out-of-hospital cardiac arrest?

Br Paramed J. 2019 Mar 1;3(4):23-26. doi: 10.29045/14784726.2019.03.3.4.23.

Authors

Ffion Barham¹, Stephanie Bailey¹, Blair Graham¹

Affiliation

¹ University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust.

Abstract

This short review addresses the evidence behind dispatcher-assisted CPR (DA-CPR) and whether it contributes to overall survival of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Six papers directly addressed the review question and were selected for appraisal, including one systematic review. The outcomes of these studies demonstrate variable results from the implementation of DA-CPR strategies. While DA-CPR has some utility as a substitute for spontaneously delivered bystander CPR, available evidence suggests there is scope to improve. Further work should focus on the identification and adoption of more effective protocols.

Keywords: cardiopulmonary resuscitation; emergency medical dispatch; emergency medical services.