The AED Superstore Weblog

The "new" CPR...your questions answered here

     If you haven't heard about it, yet...where have you been? Yesterday the American Heart Association validated the new "chest compression only" CPR method (a.k.a. CCR, Hands-Only, or CC-CPR) as an "acceptable alternative" to the way previously taught using rescue breathing. You can download and read the entire article here. CPR instructors should click here to view the AHA web cast.

     There are 2 reasons for the acceptance of this new "Hands-Only" procedure. One, it is effective. Two, it's been known that bystanders have been reluctant to perform mouth-to-mouth breathing on strangers. Now it's no longer a concern for the most part.

     We have received a number of questions from customers who want to know how this new CPR delivery method affects them and their AEDs. We thought we'd share some of them with you in a "Frequently Asked Questions" or FAQ format.

     Does the new CPR method mean I can get rid of my CPR masks and mouth barriers?
No. CPR is used not only to resuscitate cardiac arrest victims, but also to treat choking victims and those patients with a pulse but who are not otherwise breathing. Masks and barriers are still mandatory when treating these types of emergencies.

     Will I need to reprogram or update my Automated External Defibrillator (AED) because of this change in CPR?
No. Remember, hands-only CPR is optional. About half of the AED models currently on the market offer some type of verbal CPR coaching. If you choose to perform hands-only CPR, simply ignore the prompts from the AED to give rescue breaths. To keep things simple, we still recommend you follow the AED's voice prompts whenever possible. AED manufacturers may address the new concept in future upgrades.

     Is hands-only CPR easier to perform?
Yes and no. "Yes" because one step in the CPR procedure has been removed and the threat of body fluid contact is greatly reduced. "No" because its hard work! Performing two minutes of non-stop chest compressions at a rate of 100 per minute and a 1 1/2 to 2 inch compression depth is exhausting. Now consider that you may have to do several cycles of this before EMS arrives to take over. If you've ever thought about running a mini-marathon this is a realistic simulation. Kidding aside, remember, you're doing this to save a life. Perform CPR until you're physically unable to continue or someone else can take over.

     Is this considered a CPR "Guidelines" change?
We asked our resident AHA CPR instructor about the future and here's what we learned: The hands-only way is an option for rescuers. CPR instructors will continue to teach the "regular" method of CPR using rescue breaths and chest compressions. However, CPR instructors should inform their students of the hands-only alternative. CPR Guidelines are constantly studied and reviewed, but changes are published about every 5 years. That's when CPR training materials (books, videos, etc.) are also updated. The last change was in November 2005. If history holds true, we can expect changes around 2010. The fact hands-only CPR is now a recognized alternative does not define this change as a "new" Guidelines change. It is an addendum to the current 2005 Guidelines.

     Do you have other questions? We'd love to answer them for you. Simply ask in the comments section of this article or give us a call at the AED Superstore at 1-800-544-0048.

The New Zoll AED Plus Trainer2

     Zoll Medical Corp. is introducing their newest trainer, the Zoll AED Plus Trainer2.  Let's take a look at the similarites and differences between the new trainer and the previous model (Zoll AED Plus Trainer):

     Both versions use the same pads, have pre-programmed scenarios with manual capabilities, and remote controls.  The LCD display has been eliminated from the Trainer2.  One note regarding the remotes:  The new Trainer2, by popular demand, has a wireless remote allowing for more mobility and flexibility for the instructor.

     The Trainer 2 comes with 4 different rescue scenarios.  With the wireless remote the instructor can control multiple AED Plus Trainer2s.  The unit is powered by 4 "D"cell batteries (included), which provides up to 100 hours of training.  No AC adapter to anchor the unit down.  The remote uses 2 "AA" batteries (included).

     The Zoll AED Plus Trainer2 is priced the same as the previous model, $350.00, with features designed for the CPR instructor in mind.  Order yours today at www.aedsuperstore.com, or call and speak with a friendly and knowledgeable member of our staff.

PocketCPR(TM) to be released soon from Bio-Detek Inc and Zoll Medical Corporation

      PocketCPR (TM) from Bio-Detek, a subsidiary of ZOLL Medical Corporation, is coming soon and we got our collective hands on one not too long ago. (Click the photo for a bigger picture of the device.) Our sample is labeled "For Training Only" presumably in anticipation of FDA clearance for use in real emergencies. The device is intended for both uses.

     There are several CPR coaching devices on the market, but this one is really exciting to us. The PocketCPR combines a typical pocket-sized CPR voice prompting system with a unique CPR feedback function. This device prompts the user through all steps of CPR and measures chest compression depth to advise the user to "Push Harder" if needed. If chest compressions are performed correctly, the device reassures the rescuer by saying "Good Compressions." Does all this sound familiar? It should! These same features are found on ZOLL's AED Plus and AED Pro defibrillator models, too.

     The operation of the PocketCPR device is straightforward. Power it up and place it on the patient's chest using the normal "landmarks." A short power-up system test is followed by clear CPR instructions. In addition, flashing lights and a metronome further direct the rescuer. The interesting part is the rescuer places both hands in the normal chest compression position right on top of the PocketCPR unit. It then provides feedback to the user to reinforce or correct performance during the emergency.

     The PocketCPR uses a single Duracell 123 battery which is the same size battery used in the AED Plus.

     Price is to be determined.

     Check the AED Superstore website at www.aedsuperstore.com for availability.

Chest compression CPR already catching on

     Glendale firefighters in Arizona are teaching their residents the new chest compression only CPR we wrote about in a previous post. The Arizona Republic wrote about it today and it appears the turnout is huge. Their class is taught in about 2 hours which is about half the class time of a current full CPR class.

     Although the current American Heart Association and American Red Cross CPR curriculum doesn't recognize this method (yet), we applaud any effort that empowers more people to save lives.

     New "Guidelines" here we come (although it could still be a few years away)!

Chest compressions without rescue breathing may be as effective as "traditional" CPR--new method known as "CC-CPR"

     The December issue of Circulation reports on the conclusions of two studies which show CPR done without rescue breathing may be as effective as the compression/ventilation combination we're taught to do now. The new method is called "CC-CPR." "CC" stands for "chest compressions."

     The studies were conducted in Sweden and Japan. An article about the findings was posted by U.S. News and World Report. It is not a part of the current American Heart Association or American Red Cross CPR protocols.

     The amount of data coming out about this has us convinced that CC-CPR will be considered as part of a future Guidelines update.

New CPR promises better results by compressing abdomen, not chest

     A biomedical engineer at Purdue University has developed an alternative CPR compression technique that is nothing like we've seen before. It's a new method of performing chest compressions on a patient that appears effective and is the second alternative we've seen that downplays the step of rescue breathing.

     Although this news item was released back in September of this year, it appears in print in this month's issue of JEMS.

Should kids be taught CPR at a young age?

Yes!