Submitted on behalf of the Bedford Fire Department
Chief David Grunes announces that the Bedford Fire Department has recently adopted a new cardiac arrest treatment protocol to increase the survival rate for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients and improve their neurological outcomes.
The cardio-cerebral resuscitation (CCR) protocol instructs EMTs and paramedics to initiate effective chest compressions for up to eight minutes prior to administering active ventilations and moving the person. This has been shown to maintain the viability of the heart and brain.
“Research has shown that this new protocol effectively increases the survival rates among cardiac arrest patients compared to the advanced life support protocols that we traditionally use,” Chief Grunes said. “Implementing this protocol is an important step for the Bedford Fire Department to ensure that we provide the highest possible level of emergency care to our community.”
Previous treatment included airway interventions during initial resuscitation and attempting to transport the patient sooner, which disturbs resuscitation and may lead to decreased survival rates.
The CCR protocol has been found to have the most success on adult patients who have experienced cardiac arrest with a certain type of heart arrhythmia and who receive immediate medical attention.
This protocol will not be used on minors under 18 years old.
Going forward, residents, bystanders and family members should be aware that they may see an extended on-scene time by emergency personnel. However, research shows that the extra few minutes spent performing high quality CCR significantly improves survival compared to standard advance life support.
If you have any questions regarding the Bedford Fire Department EMS system or the new CCR protocol, please contact the Bedford Fire Department at 781-275-7262.
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