Therapeutic hypothermia initiated in the pre-hospital setting: a meta-analysis
Date
2011
Authors
Cullen, Deborah
Augenstine, Dustin
Kaper, LesLee
Tinkham, Shawn
Utz, Dawn
Editors
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Journal Title
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Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Advanced Emergency Nursing Journal, 2011; 33(4):314-321
Statement of Responsibility
D. Cullen, D. Augenstine, L. Kaper, S. Tinkham and D. Utz
Conference Name
Abstract
After resuscitation of the cardiac arrest patient, reperfusion to the brain begins a cascade of events that may lead to permanent brain damage. Cooling suppresses the inflammatory response related to ischemia and metabolic demand, improving oxygen supply to anoxic areas. Until recently, cooling was only performed in the hospital setting. Recent studies have questioned whether initiating the cooling process immediately after resuscitation is beneficial in the pre-hospital setting. The primary purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility and safety of pre-hospital hypothermia via data extraction from randomized controlled trials and statistical meta-analysis. Studies included in this analysis did show a significant statistical difference with the ability to lower the body temperature when beginning pre-hospital cooling immediately, making it feasible to start therapeutic hypothermia in the pre-hospital setting. Further research is needed to determine neurological and discharge outcomes as the studies were not powered to determine statistical significance.
School/Discipline
The Joanna Briggs Institute
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