New era of CPR: application of i-technology in resuscitation

Introduction: The present study evaluated the performance and acceptance of a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) feedback application for the iPhone ("PocketCPR®") designed to improve chest compression performance. Methods: We randomly assigned participants into two groups to perform chest compression with (study group) or without (control group) using the "PocketCPR®" on a manikin. The participants performed totally four sets of chest compression simulating two CPR scenarios. In the first scenario, no advanced airway was inserted while in the second scenario, advanced airway was inserted. We measured and compared the rate and depth of chest compression between the groups in both scenarios. Participants in study group also finished a questionnaire on the use of feedback application. Results: The mean compression depth of the study group was significantly deeper both in the first scenario (5.22 cm; 4.56 cm, p=0.002; 5.30 cm; 4.56 cm, p=0.001) and the second scenario (5.34 cm; 4.56 cm, p<0.001; 5.35 cm; 4.49 cm, p<0.001). However, the mean compression rate of study group was significantly slower than the control group both in the first scenario (105.19; 118.58, p<0.001; 105.23; 119.36, p<0.001) and the second scenario (106.10; 121.08, p<0.001, 106.61; 117.42, p=0.002). Conclusion: A mobile phone feedback application "PocketCPR®" improves chest compression quality by increasing the compression depth in laboratory setting. Further study is indicated to demonstrate its benefit in clinical setting.