Prompt dispatcher-initiated tele-CPR and facilitation of bystander’s CPR to improve out-of-hospital cardiac arrest outcomes: A prospective cohort study from Finland

Aim of the study

This study focused on the first link of the chain of survival by examining the dispatcher’s ability to early recognition of the OHCA patient and assessing patient outcomes.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study that included patients who suffered OHCA in Pirkanmaa Finland in 2022. Two researchers listened to all calls separately determining key-time events of the call. All patients with confirmed recognisable OHCA during the call who had background data and audio recordings available were included.

Results

We received 451 recordings, 246 of which met the inclusion criteria, and 217 (88 %) were recognised as OHCA. The beginning of tele-CPR guidance (1 min 20 sec vs 1 min 55 sec, p = 0.002) and initiation of bystander CPR (2 min 48 sec vs 3 min 50 sec, p = 0.012) were faster in cases with shockable rhythm on EMS arrival. Every minute of delay in the dispatcher initiating tele-CPR guidance decreased the probability of shockable initial rhythm by 23 % (OR 0.76 [0.61;0.95], p = 0.018). Shockable initial rhythm was more common among patients who were alive at three months after OHCA (83 % vs 21 %, p < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, shockable initial rhythm favoured 3-month survival (OR 16.67 [5.41;52.63], p < 0.001). Overall survival at three months was 12 % (29/246), of which 90 % (26/29) had a Cerebral Performance Category of 1–2.

Conclusion

Quick tele-CPR guidance may be related to/ associated with improving the chances for shockable initial rhythm, thus further improving the chances for long-term survival.