Real-time feedback systems in CPR

SummaryCardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation are the most important means of treatment in cardiac arrest. High quality CPR has been shown to improve patient outcome, but CPR quality frequently does not meet standards as recommended by current guidelines. Feedback technology supports the rescuer in real-time with vocal or visual information on CPR quality to improve guideline adherence. A variety of feedback systems have been developed in the course of the last few years. This review aims to give an overview of feedback devices for use by laypersons or healthcare providers during actual cardiac arrest. It summarizes the effect of such devices on CPR quality in simulation or real life and possible dangers or limitations.