Is helmet CPAP first line pre-hospital treatment of presumed severe acute pulmonary edema?

Purpose: Non-invasive continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is effective in reducing intubation rate and mortality of patient with acute cardiogenic pulmonary edema (ACPE). We report our experience on pre-hospital application of CPAP by helmet as an adjunct to medical therapy or as a stand alone procedure in patient with presumed ACPE.

Methods: In pre-hospital treatment of 62 patients with presumed ACPE, CPAP was added to standard medical treatment while in another 59 patients, CPAP was used as a sole therapy.

Prospective performance evaluation of emergency medical services for cardiac arrest in Lombardia: is something moving forward?

Background: Limited data are available in our region on out-of-hospital treatment of cardiac arrest. The aim of this study is to evaluate whether the changes implemented in the emergency system (i.e.