Prone Dispatch-Directed CPR in Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: Two Successful Cases

Abstract

Historically, dispatch-directed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) protocols only allow chest compression instructions to be delivered for patients able to be placed in the traditional supine position. For patients who are unable to be positioned supine, the telecommunicator and caller have no option except to continue attempts to position supine, which may result in delayed or no chest compressions being delivered prior to emergency medical services arrival. Any delay or lack of bystander chest compressions may result in worsening clinical outcomes of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) victims. We present the first two cases, to the best of our knowledge, of successfully delivered, bystander-administered, prone CPR instructions by a trained telecommunicator for two OHCA victims unable to be positioned supine.

Disclosure Statement

J.J. Clawson is the founder and chief executive officer, and on the Board of Trustees, for the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch. J.J. Clawson has an approved plan in place for managing any potential conflicts arising from his financial interests in the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch. C. Olola, G. Scott, and B.A. Patterson are employees of the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch, and C. Olola, G. Scott, and B.A. Patterson have an approved plan in place for managing any potential conflicts arising from their employment with the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch.