Anton,
Is this a service protocol to deviate from JRCALC guidelines, or just
something that happens? I think it is beyond the current scope of all
paramedics to decide to terminate resus while still in VF/VT/PEA, and that's
the way it should remain. Fair enough to stop in asystole after 20 mins of
full ALS, as per current guidelines.
There is the strong possibility of staff leaving themselves open to civil,
or indeed criminal, prosecution by failing to follow existing guidelines.
JRCALC recommends initiating transport after 3 cycles of shocks. This will
ideally be 10-12 minutes into the resus. I would seriously question
remaining on scene long enough to achieve the 30 minutes you quote.
Personally I always look to start preparing for transport after 2 cycles
(about 8 minutes) then we will move after the third cycle, irrespective of
rhythm change.
And, as for the reaction you describe Mike, I have yet to visit an A&E
department that acted so unprofessionally. I seriously suggest that you pass
on your concerns to your superiors.
Richard Taffler
BSc(Hons)BEng SRpara GASI
Paramedic, Westcountry Ambulance.
-----Original Message-----
From: Accident and Emergency Academic List
[mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Anton van Dellen
Sent: 19 January 2005 18:52
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Limiting Shocks
No. We tend to only run to hospital with a return of spont circulation,
otherwise cease resuscitation after 30 minutes on scene. Exceptions are
public place, overdoses, hypothermia, paeds.
Anton
Staffs
"dave.j.fletcher" wrote:
>
> Are the list aware of any local ambulance service limitations to the
number
> defibrillator shocks that crews can make before they must 'run' to
hospital?
> Regards
> Dave Fletcher
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