A Conceptual Framework to Reduce Inpatient Preventable Deaths.

Background: Efforts to reduce preventable deaths in the in-hospital setting should target both cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) prevention and optimal resuscitation. This requires consideration of a broad range of clinical issues and processes. A comprehensive, integrated system of care (SOC) that links data collection with a modular education program to reduce preventable deaths has not been defined.

A performance improvement-based resuscitation programme reduces arrest incidence and increases survival from in-hospital cardiac arrest.

Background: Traditional resuscitation training models are inadequate to achieving and maintaining resuscitation competency. This analysis evaluates the effectiveness of a novel, performance improvement-based inpatient resuscitation programme.

Methods: This was a prospective, before-and-after study conducted in an urban, university-affiliated hospital system.

A novel configuration of a traditional rapid response team decreases non-intensive care unit arrests and overall hospital mortality.

Background: In-hospital cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) accounts for substantial morbidity and mortality. Rapid response teams (RRTs) are designed to prevent non-intensive care unit (ICU) CPA through early detection and intervention. However, existing evidence has not consistently demonstrated a clear benefit.

Electrical and mechanical recovery of cardiac function following out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

Background: Compression pauses may be particularly harmful following the electrical recovery but prior to the mechanical recovery from cardiopulmonary arrest.

Methods And Results: A convenience sample of patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OOHCA) were identified. Data were exported from defibrillators to define compression pauses, electrocardiogram rhythm, PetCO2, and the presence of palpable pulses.

Minimizing pre- and post-defibrillation pauses increases the likelihood of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC).

Background: The three-phase model of ventricular fibrillation (VF) arrest suggests a period of compressions to "prime" the heart prior to defibrillation attempts. In addition, post-shock compressions may increase the likelihood of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). The optimal intervals for shock delivery following cessation of compressions (pre-shock interval) and resumption of compressions following a shock (post-shock interval) remain unclear.