How would you answer this question?
In a recent study of inner-city neighborhoods, the authors found that out of hospital cardiac arrest was 2-3 times higher in some neighborhoods compared to others. In these high incidence neighborhoods what was the rate of bystander CPR?
a. 25%.
b. 50%.
c. 75%.
d. 100%.
The correct answer is "a" 25%.
In a study by Sasson, et al. (2010) some urban areas were found to have higher out-of-hospital cardiac arrest rates. In these areas, rates of bystander CPR were between 10-57% with an average of 25%. The national average is 27%. The authors suggest that high incidence areas would be good places to target for CPR training.
There are many explanations as to why some neighborhoods had much higher out-of-hospital cardiac arrest rates. These neighborhoods may have included more chronically ill and elderly persons, or the increase might be attributable to lack of access to healthcare. These neighborhoods would also be good places to target with health screenings and other health education initiatives.
About 66% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in patients without prior recognition of cardiac disease. Median survival to discharge after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is 6.4%. Screening for cardiac risk factors and education about the connection between risks, cardiac disease, and sudden cardiac death is an important priority for nurses.
From: Sasson, C., et al. (2010). Small area variations in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: Does the neighborhood matter? Ann Intern Med, 153 (1), 19-22.
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