What biomechanical factors are more important in compression depth for children lifesavers? A randomized crossover study

• Published in: The American journal of emergency medicine 2019-01, Vol.37 (1), p.100-108
• Main Authors: Otero-Agra, Martín, Rodríguez-Núñez, Antonio, Rey, Ezequiel, Abelairas-Gómez, Cristian, Besada-Saavedra, Iker, Antón-Ogando, Ana Pilar, López-García, Sergio, Martín-Conty, José Luis, Barcala-Furelos, Roberto
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Anthropometric; Anthropometry; Biomechanical analysis; Biomechanics; Biometrics; Body mass index; Body measurements; Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation; Children; Clinical trials; Compression; CPR; Depth; Elevation; Emergency medical care; Evidence-based medicine; Quality; Randomization; Statistical analysis; Step; Variables
• ISSN: 0735-6757; 1532-8171
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2018.05.003

To evaluate the biomechanical aspects involved in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation's compression depth by children. A randomized crossover study with 196 children between 9 and 14 years-old was conducted. The children performed four CPR hands-only tests of 1 min in four different heights (floor, 5 cm, 10 cm, and 15 cm). Anthropometric, angulation and quality of CPR variables were registered during the tests. CPR quality was sub-optimal in all tests. Tests with the simulated victim placed on the floor had the best compression quality. Children that made deeper compressions had significantly higher values in all anthropometric variables. Analysis gives more discriminatory power to the anthropometric variables than angulation variables on compression depth. Chest compression depth obtained by children depends more on their anthropometric characteristics than on their body position. The approximate age to perform compressions with an acceptable quality is 12 years-old. The use of steps increased arm angle, getting it closer to 90° but did not increase quality CPR when compared with performance on the floor.