Blood gas analysis to aid decisions in non-traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest

Background: Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is a presentation faced by paramedics where decision-making is complex. Blood gas analysis (BGA) is used by hospital-based clinicians to guide decisions, suggesting its prehospital use could support paramedics. Aim: This study aimed to examine the current literature to elucidate whether BGA could support UK-based paramedic decision-making when managing a non-traumatic adult OHCA. Methods: Research literature surrounding the topic was sourced via the CINAHL and MEDLINE databases as well as through a grey literature search. Findings: Nine articles were reviewed, which showed consistent themes of BGA correlating to prognosis, therapeutic intervention and Utstein factors. Conclusion: The current evidence base is consistent in suggesting that BGA would support decision-making if used prehospitally; however, this is mostly not specific to UK paramedic practice. Further understanding would be required for its inclusion to be considered.