Protocol 1 - CPR in Remote Settings
This protocol applies only to normothermic patients (core temperature > 90°F, 32°C) in cardiac arrest. Chest compressions are initiated for patients in cardiac arrest evidenced by pulselessness. To be effective, CPR must be started promptly. Even then, its benefits are limited.
1. |
Assess and treat according to standard CPR protocols. |
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2. |
If cardiac arrest persists continuously for over 30 minutes of sustained chest compressions and assisted ventilations all treatment may be stopped. |
There are some circumstances where CPR should not be started.
These include:
1. |
Any pulseless person who has been submersed in water for more than one hour and not connected to a source of air. |
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2. |
Any pulseless person with an obvious lethal injury (i.e. decapitation, exsanguinations). This would include severe trauma to the chest that would prevent CPR or an open brain injury. |
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