Policy:
Unsuccessful
cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and other advanced life support (ALS)
interventions may be discontinued prior to transport or arrival at the hospital
when this procedure is followed.
Purpose:
The
purpose of this policy is to:
·
Allow for discontinuation of prehospital
resuscitation after delivery of adequate and appropriate ALS therapy.
Procedure:
1.
Discontinuation of CPR and ALS intervention may be implemented prior
to contact with Medical Control if ALL of the following criteria have been
met:
·
Patient must be 18 years of age or older
·
Adequate CPR has been administered
·
Airway has been successfully managed with
verification of device placement. Acceptable management techniques include oro-tracheal
intubation, naso-tracheal intubation, Combitube placement, or cricothyrotomy
·
IV access has been achieved
·
No evidence or suspicion of any of the following:
¶
Drug/toxin overdose
¶
Active internal bleeding
¶
Hypothermia
¶
Preceding trauma
2.
Rhythm appropriate medications and defibrillation have been administered
according to local EMS Protocols for a total of 3 cycles of drug therapy without
return of spontaneous circulation (i.e., palpable pulse).
3.
All EMS paramedic personnel involved in the patient’s care agree that
discontinuation of the resuscitation is appropriate.
4.
If all of the above criteria are not met and discontinuation of
prehospital resuscitation is desired, contact Medical Control.
5.
Follow the procedures set forth in the “Expression
[of the Opinion] that Death has Occurred” policy.