Abstract

Objective: To study the effects of underlying bed softness versus stiffness on the effectiveness of chest compressions in CPR. Methods: For a wide range of bed stiffness constants, mathematical models describing compression of the human chest supported by a hospital bed were created for an adult thorax experiencing either a sinusoidal compressive force or a sinusoidal sternal displacement. Results: With 5 cm peak displacement, sternum-to-spine compression fell from 4.3 to 1.0 cm, and peak power fell from 59 to 23 Watts, as bed stiffness decreased from 50,000 to 5,000 N/m. Less than 35% of maximal chest compression occurred at a typical bed stiffness of 10,000 N/m. With 400 N peak force, sternum-to-spine compression decreased from 5.0 to 2.0 cm, and peak power increased from 82 to 226 Watts, as bed stiffness decreased from 50,000 to 5,000 N/m. However, greater than 85% of maximal chest compression was obtained at a typical bed stiffness of 10,000 N/m. Conclusion: The deterioration of chest compression performed on soft beds is technique dependent. If necessary, CPR can be performed effectively on a softer surface using a constant peak force technique. However, a firm surface is most desirable.

Comments

This is the author accepted manuscript of J.M. Boe, C.F. Babbs, Mechanics of cardiopulmonary resuscitation performed with the patient on a soft bed vs. a hard surface, Academic Emergency Medicine, 6, 754-757, 1999. Copyright Wiley, the version of record is available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1553-2712.1999.tb00449.x.

Keywords

Bed, Cardiac Arrest, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, Chest Compression, Computers, Hospital, Mathematical Model, Mechanics

Date of this Version

1999

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