Miniature CPR Device Measures Chest Compressions

A palm-sized device assists rescuers in the delivery of high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by measuring actual chest compressions.

The PocketCPR coaches the rescuer with audio and visual instructions to initiate the critical rescue steps needed for sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), such as checking responsiveness and calling for help. After these initial rescue steps are performed, the PocketCPR is placed on the chest, where it then provides real-time feedback on the depth and rate of chest compressions. The device notifies the rescuer to "push harder” if the compressions are less than 3.8 cm, which is below the 3.8-5.0 cm specified in the American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines. If good compressions are delivered, the PocketCPR will respond by audibly saying "good compressions.” The device provides the same CPR real-time messages provided in the Zoll line of defibrillators. Additionally, four light emitting diodes (LEDs) on the device flash for a good compression and one LED flashes if the compression is less than 3.8 cm. A metronome helps the rescuer to achieve the proper rate of compressions. All steps follow the recommendations of the 2005 AHA guidelines. The PocketCPR is manufactured by Bio-Detek (Pawtucket, RI, USA), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Zoll Medical Corporation (Chelmsford, MA, USA), and has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance as an over-the-counter rescue device.

"Performing CPR is physically and mentally demanding,” said Mark H. Totman, president of Bio-Detek. "In cases of sudden cardiac arrest, the rate and depth of chest compressions are essential to successful resuscitation. PocketCPR reminds a rescuer what to do and then guides the rescuer to deliver high-quality compressions with the simple messages ‘push harder' and ‘good compressions'.”

Studies have shown that audible prompting during CPR can improve the delivery of CPR and prevent the decrease of compression rate and depth that naturally occurs with fatigue.


Related Links:
Bio-Detek
Zoll Medical Corporation