Abstract 11602: The Bystander Support Network: Building a Resource for the Forgotten Patient

Introduction: Bystander CPR is the most closely associated intervention to increased survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA); a victim is almost 4 times more likely to survive when someone witnesses their arrest and performs CPR while emergency personnel are enroute - unfortunately, bystander CPR rates remain astoundingly low, rarely exceeding 35%. Various attempts have been made in the past to improve bystander response rates and many qualitative studies have attempted to understand the barriers to responding in various parts of the world. However, something which has never been addressed is the psychologic impacts and support needs of bystanders after such a traumatic event. Methods: Using an experience based design methodology, we designed and launched the first Sudden Cardiac Arrest Bystander Support Network - www.bystandernetwork.org - in April 2017. The Network has created a community of OHCA lay rescuers which connects those with similar experiences, builds a longitudinal community-base...