Knokke Heist

Researchers are evaluating whether using Positive End-Expiratory Pressure (PEEP) during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) improves outcomes for adults who experience sudden out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. PEEP is applied during ventilation to keep airways open, which may enhance oxygen levels. This Phase 3 trial aims to determine if PEEP helps restart the heart more effectively, improves survival rates, and leads to better neurological outcomes compared to standard CPR without PEEP. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one receiving CPR with a disposable PEEP valve set at 5 cm H2O and the other receiving standard CPR without PEEP. Both groups will be ventilated using an adult resuscitation bag with a pressure relief valve set at 40 cm H2O. Emergency medical teams trained in advanced life support will perform intubation and ventilation during resuscitation efforts. Custom sensors will measure airflow and airway pressure to monitor the ventilation process. During the study, researchers will collect data on the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) on day one, survival to hospital admission and discharge, and neurological outcomes at discharge. Safety will be closely monitored, including potential side effects such as increased chest pressure or lung injuries. The study results will help determine if PEEP should be included in standard CPR guidelines for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients.

This research evaluates how real-time ventilation feedback affects ventilation rate and tidal volume during cardiac arrest. The study focuses on patients who are intubated and receiving manual resuscitation ventilation during out-of-hospital cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The purpose is to compare ventilation performance with and without feedback from a connected flow sensor. Patients are first ventilated without any feedback, although a flow sensor records ventilation data. Then, in a second cycle, the ventilation device displays real-time ventilation frequency and volume on a screen to inform the user. This device is being studied to see if showing this feedback changes how ventilation is delivered during cardiac arrest. Participants' ventilation frequency and volume are automatically recorded throughout the study. The main outcomes measured are delivered ventilation frequency and volume over 2-minute intervals. The study involves monitoring these parameters during the two ventilation cycles to assess the impact of feedback on ventilation during cardiac arrest.