What is a Chest Compression Feedback Device?

Chest compression feedback devices are medical tools specifically designed to monitor the quality of chest compressions for individuals in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). These measures may come in the form of a belt, vest, board, and/or clip that wrap around the patient’s chest and provide real-time audio, visual, and/or haptic feedback on the rate and depth of chest compressions that are taking place.

The Importance of Quality Chest Compressions

Chest compressions are an important part of CPR, and must be performed correctly in order to increase the chances of a successful resuscitation. The American Heart Association and the Interim Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Emergency Cardiac Care (ECC) recommend that chest compressions be performed every 5 to 6 seconds at a depth of 1.5 to 2 inches for an adult patient. Chest compressions that are too shallow, are too fast, or are too slow will not help the patient to hopefully improve their general health outcome.

How Does a Chest Compression Feedback Device Work?

Chest compression feedback devices measure the appropriate rate, depth and release of each chest compression. The devices monitor if the chest compressions are being performed in the right range (rate and depth) and give the rescuer audio, visual, and/or haptic feedback (e.g., vibrations, clicks, etc). The device will alert the rescuer if the chest compressions are not being done in the right range. In addition, some devices also provide information on the total number of compressions, the number of compressions that are too shallow/too deep/too fast/too slow, and the amount of work that has been done.

Chest compression feedback devices have the potential to improve the quality of chest compressions for lay rescuers and healthcare professionals. They are designed to help rescuers to perform chest compressions properly, which can help improve patient outcomes.