Human research on cardiopulmonary resuscitation: current constraints on implementation

Researchers face a number of constraints to human resuscitation research. To overcome these constraints we must first recognize them and then work to develop solutions. The constraints include history, which tends to create a standard-of-care aura around practices that have not been confirmed by valid research. Until recently, we have lacked uniform models, nomenclature, and definitions for resuscitation research, though the "Utstein style" movement is doing much to overcome this particular constraint. We have to face several barriers that emerge from the very nature of human cardiopulmonary emergencies, such as its relative rarity, the multifactorial causes and outcomes, and its sudden, unpredictable nature. Good research requires appropriate levels of funding. Currently, human resuscitation research does not rank high on the funding priority list of our major funding agencies. This requires an organized approach to generate funding support and requires strong, coherent research proposals. Despite these constraints, we face many opportunities to improve survival from cardiopulmonary emergencies.