Does the use of a chest compression system in children improve the effectiveness of chest compressions? A randomised crossover simulation pilot study

Background: Providing high-quality chest compressions is a key element affecting the effectiveness of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of standard (manual) chest compressions (Standard BLS, standard basic life support) and those performed with the use of the Lifeline ARM chest compression system (ARM; Defibtech). Methods: The study was designed as a randomised crossover study. In total, 37 nurses participated in the study. They performed a randomized 2-min asynchronous resuscitation using the Standard BLS method or the ARM system. The following parameters were measured: the total number of chest compressions, the frequency of compressions (min-1), compression depth (mm), and the percentage of correctly performed chest compressions and total chest decompressions. The authors also analysed the participants' preferences concerning the use of particular CPR techniques in the clinical setting. Results: The results obtained during the simulation study with the application of the ARM system were statistically significantly better than those with the Standard BLS method (p < 0.05) in the case of all analysed parameters. Conclusions: During the simulated child resuscitation performed by the nurses, the application of the Lifeline ARM chest compression system significantly improved the effectiveness of chest compressions.