Optimal chest compression in cardiopulmonary resuscitation depends upon thoracic and back support stiffness

A biomechanical analysis of the constant peak displacement and constant peak force methods of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) has revealed that optimal CC performance strongly depends on back support stiffness, CC rate, and the thoracic stiffness of the patient being resuscitated. Clinically the results presented in this study suggest that the stiffness of the back support surfaces found in many hospitals may be sub-optimal and that a backboard or a concrete floor can be used to enhance CC effectiveness. In addition, the choice of optimal CC rate and maximum sternal force applied by clinicians during peak force CPR is ought to be based on a general assessment of the patient’s thoracic stiffness, taking into account the patient’s age, gender, and physical condition; which is consistent with current clinical practice. In addition, it is important for clinicians to note that very high peak sternal forces, exceeding the limit above which severe chest wall trauma and abdominal injury occurs, may be required for optimal CC during peak force CPR on patients with very stiff chests. In these cases an alternative CPR technique may be more appropriate.