Minimal Risk for Shock to Rescuers During Biphasic Defibrillation

Avoiding interruption of chest compressions during cardiopulmonary resuscitation potentially can improve patient outcomes by supporting continuous coronary and cerebral circulation. However, in the absence of automated resuscitation systems, a “hands-off” period during delivery of shocks is recommended to protect rescuers from potentially dangerous electrical discharge. In the current era, with use of conforming pre-gelled electrodes and advanced biphasic defibrillators, the risk to the rescuer might be minimal.

In this study, researchers measured leakage voltage and current through four investigators who served as mock rescuers during elective cardioversion in 43 patients. With a gloved hand, the rescuer applied pressure to the patient’s ch…