A novel method to decrease mattress compression during CPR using a mattress compression cover and a vacuum pump

Abstract

Background: Mattress compression causes feedback devices to over-estimate the chest compression depth measurement during CPR. We propose a novel method to decrease the mattress compression using a vinyl cover. This mattress compression cover encloses the foam mattress and is compressed by a vacuum pump immediately prior to performing CPR. Methods: Nine CPR providers performed chest compressions on manikins placed on a conventional foam mattress on a bed frame (surface CONV), a backboard and foam mattress on a bed frame (surface BB), and a foam mattress, compressed with a vacuum pump, on a bed frame (surface VAC). Dual accelerometers were used to simultaneously measure the mattress compression and chest compression depths. Results: The mattress compression depth levels decreased from 14.9 mm (SD 1.4 mm) on surface CONV to 7.0 mm (SD 0.6 mm) on surface VAC (p < 0.001) whereas 14.0 mm (SD 1.3 mm) on surface BB. The total compression depth was 65.4 mm (SD 3.8 mm) on surface CONV, and 58.3 mm (SD 3.0 mm) on surface VAC (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Using a mattress compression cover and a vacuum pump appears to increase the rigidity of the mattress and allow for efficient chest compressions. This novel method could decrease the mattress compression depth and increase the efficiency of chest compression during CPR in hospitals. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.