Reports on cardio-pulmonary resuscitation attempts outside of the operating rooms

Abstract

Most Anesthesiologists have first-hand experience with cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the operating rooms and the recovery rooms. Cardiac arrest in these areas in most instances is readily detected and competently treated, as anesthesiologists and surgeons are immediately available. In contrast, cardio-pulmonary resuscitation attempts outside the operating rooms and the recovery rooms have been rare. Following the introduction of mouth-to-mouth ventilation and external cardiac compression, however, cardiac resuscitation attempts on the wards, in the emergency room, and some even outside of hospitals, are increasing in number. The salvage rates in these areas so far, have been low, since many of these patients are suffering from incurable disease and often resuscitation is started too late to permit recovery of the central nervous system. More extensive teaching of the early recognition and treatment of cardiopulmonary collapse, better organization of resuscitation services and better monitoring and alarm systems, we hope, will increase the salvage rate.