Piston Devices
Depress the sternum via a gas powered piston. Two studies showed than mechanical CPR improved EtCO2 and mean arterial pressure in cardiac arrest patients in both the hospital and prehospital settings. (p. IV-48)
Recommendation: mechanical CPR may be considered for patients in cardiac arrest in circumstances that make manual resuscitation difficult. Class IIb.
Should be programmed to accomplish the following: deliver standard CPR with an adequate depth, a rate of 100 compressions/minute, at a ratio of 30:2, with a duty cycle of 50:50 and allow for full chest recoil. (p. IV-48)
Load-Distributing Band or Vest CPR
Circumferential chest compression device that is comprised of constricting band and a backboard. It is typically driven by air or electricity.
One study involving 162 patient documents improved survival to emergency department. Also, 1 hospital and 2 lab studies show improved hemodynamics.
May be considered as an adjunct therapy with cardiac arrest patients in both hospital and prehospital settings. Class IIb. (p. IV-49).