Nonstandard cardiopulmonary resuscitation and basic life support: A scoping review of techniques applicable to wheelchair users

Abstract

Aim: To explore evidence that informs new or non-standard methods for delivery of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic life support (BLS) that may be used by carers of wheelchair users and assist in the development of an educational intervention.

Material and methods: A scoping review was conducted. Keywords used included cardiac arrest, cardiopulmonary, resuscitation, "basic life support", and special circumstances. In total, 3581 papers were retrieved and 72 full text articles were reviewed with 14 papers meeting the inclusion criteria.

Results: Nine intervention studies, three systematic reviews and two expert opinion papers were included and divided into four broad categories pertaining to how they differed from standard CPR guidelines. The four categories were nontraditional compression techniques, CPR not delivered in a flat position, CPR not delivered on a hard surface and CPR not delivered at floor level.

Conclusion: The scoping review has identified techniques for delivery of CPR and BLS that may be beneficial to wheelchair users. Further research is required to determine applicability and effectiveness.

Keywords: Basic life support; Cardiopulmonary resuscitation; Disability; Guidelines; Special circumstances; Wheelchair.