Performing CPR on a commercial diver inside the diving bell.

Area of Science:

• Hyperbaric Medicine
• Emergency Medical Services
• Diving Physiology

Background:

• Conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is challenging in confined diving bell environments.
• Existing CPR protocols are not designed for the unique conditions within a diving bell.
• Evidence-based medicine principles have not been extensively applied to diving bell CPR.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and evaluate a modified CPR technique for use inside a diving bell.
• To address the limitations of conventional CPR in underwater, confined spaces.
• To highlight the unique environmental factors of diving bells for casualty management.

Main Methods:

• Patient suspended via pulley; bell flooded to mitigate blood pooling.
• Airway management using cervical collar for hyperextension and oropharyngeal airway insertion.
• Cardiac compressions performed by the bellman using head/knee, with patient secured.

Main Results:

• A non-conventional CPR method was successfully adapted for the diving bell environment.
• The described technique allows for airway management and chest compressions under unique constraints.
• Diving bell recovery is contingent on the return of spontaneous breathing and circulation.

Conclusions:

• The described CPR method is a necessary adaptation for managing unconscious casualties in diving bells.
• While differing from conventional CPR, this technique is currently the only feasible option.
• Further research is crucial to refine and enhance the effectiveness of this specialized CPR method.