Date of Award
Spring 2021
Degree Name
Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)
Department
Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences
First Advisor
Amanda Seymour, PA-C
Abstract
Patients experiencing cardiac arrest are treated according to ACLS protocols, however current protocols lack recommendations for the treatment of refractory Ventricular Fibrillation which persists after more than 3 cycles of CPR and defibrillation. One potential intervention for these cases that is being researched is the use of simultaneous or sequential activation of two defibrillators. This literature review analyzed the results of several studies to determine if double sequential defibrillation (DSD) is a viable treatment to achieve return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and improved patient survival. The results of the studies were mixed with some showing positive outcomes, and others showing no significant difference. Although more research is needed, providers should keep this treatment in mind when there are no other options available.
Recommended Citation
Brown, Kaitlyn A., "Management of Refractory Ventricular Fibrillation with Double Sequential Defibrillation" (2021). Capstone Showcase. 8.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2021/pa/8
Included in
Cardiology Commons, Cardiovascular Diseases Commons, Critical Care Commons, Emergency Medicine Commons, Equipment and Supplies Commons, Internal Medicine Commons, Investigative Techniques Commons, Therapeutics Commons
Management of Refractory Ventricular Fibrillation with Double Sequential Defibrillation
Patients experiencing cardiac arrest are treated according to ACLS protocols, however current protocols lack recommendations for the treatment of refractory Ventricular Fibrillation which persists after more than 3 cycles of CPR and defibrillation. One potential intervention for these cases that is being researched is the use of simultaneous or sequential activation of two defibrillators. This literature review analyzed the results of several studies to determine if double sequential defibrillation (DSD) is a viable treatment to achieve return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and improved patient survival. The results of the studies were mixed with some showing positive outcomes, and others showing no significant difference. Although more research is needed, providers should keep this treatment in mind when there are no other options available.