A Comparative Study of Time to Initiate Chest Compressions and Chest Compression Fraction in the Supine and Prone Positions Using Simulation.

Repositioning a patient from the prone to supine position can delay the initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Investigators used high-fidelity simulation to assess the time to initiate chest compressions and the time during which compressions did not occur for supine and prone CPR. Sixty participants completed a knowledge assessment before and after attending an education session and completing two simulations (ie, supine, prone). Mean (SD) knowledge scores improved from 48.7% (17.4%) to 85.3% (14.7%) after the education and simulations (t₅₉ = -12.32, P < .001). Prone CPR resulted in a significant reduction in the time to initiate chest compressions (13 seconds, prone; 314 seconds, supine; t₁₁ = -31.79; P < .001) and a higher chest compression fraction (84% prone versus 42% supine; t₁₁ = 19.1, P < .001). When compared to repositioning to supine, prone CPR decreased chest compression interruptions, and may therefore be beneficial during the perioperative period.

Duke Scholars

Author Virginia Chris Simmons School of Nursing

Author Marilyn Haag Oermann School of Nursing