Abstract 15593: Major Differences in the Use of Protocols for Dispatcher Assisted Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation - an Observational Study

Introduction: Dispatcher assisted cardiopulmonary resuscitation (DA-CPR) increases rate of bystander CPR. DA-CPR is recommended by resuscitation councils globally and it has been shown that the general public expects to receive pre-arrival instructions while waiting for help. A recent scientific advisory from the American Heart Association identifies standardized and structured DA-CPR protocols as important to increase bystander CPR. Aim: To compare strategies for DA-CPR among different countries and to examine whether countries meet recommendations for DA-CPR. Methods: From April to September 2014 all resuscitation countries forming the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) were inquired by E-mail about providing a copy of their DA-CPR protocol, and whether this protocol was used by all Emergency Dispatch Centers in their country. In addition, data was collected through e.g EMS in the different countries. If no response had been received, a reminder E-mail or follow-up phone call withi...