[Automatic load-distributing band CPR (AutoPulse™) in prone position, feasible?]

Area of Science:

• Critical Care Medicine
• Emergency Medicine
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

Background:

• Prone positioning is a frequent intervention for SARS-CoV-2 patients with respiratory and hemodynamic instability in ICUs and during transport.
• Safe and effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the prone position is crucial for patient outcomes and staff safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of mechanical chest compression (mCPR) using AutoPulse™ in the prone position.
• To evaluate the effects of mCPR in prone versus supine positions.

Main Methods:

• Feasibility tests were conducted using AutoPulse™ on manikins in both supine and prone positions.
• Different aspects of mCPR in the prone position were discussed.

Main Results:

• AutoPulse™ achieved a constant pressure depth of 3cm at 84/min in the supine position.
• In the prone position, AutoPulse™ maintained a constant pressure depth of 2.6cm at 84/min.

Conclusions:

• Mechanical chest compression (mCPR) is feasible in manikins in both prone and supine positions.
• The AutoPulse™ device demonstrated consistent performance in delivering chest compressions in the prone position.