A Comparative Study of Time to Initiate Chest Compressions and Chest Compression Fraction in the Supine and Prone Positions Using Simulation

Repositioning a patient from the prone to supine position can delay the initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Investigators used high-fidelity simulation to assess the time to initiate chest compressions and the time during which compressions did not occur for supine and prone CPR. Sixty participants completed a knowledge assessment before and after attending an education session and completing two simulations (ie, supine, prone). Mean (SD) knowledge scores improved from 48.7% (17.4%) to 85.3% (14.7%) after the education and simulations (t₅₉ = -12.32, P < .001). Prone CPR resulted in a significant reduction in the time to initiate chest compressions (13 seconds, prone; 314 seconds, supine; t₁₁ = -31.79; P < .001) and a higher chest compression fraction (84% prone versus 42% supine; t₁₁ = 19.1, P < .001). When compared to repositioning to supine, prone CPR decreased chest compression interruptions, and may therefore be beneficial during the perioperative period.