The debate continues to rage regarding the value of the precordial thump.

This study is interesting and enlightening for two reasons. First, studies have shown the maneuver generates very little electrical energy. This study confirms the amount of energy certainly isn’t enough to terminate V Fib. However, there are several problems using this study alone to condemn PT. The very low number of patients in V Tach is concerning.

It’s far fewer than what is generally reported in most U.S. systems. This is most likely a reflection of long response times in this system. The energy required to terminate fresh V Tach is much less than V Fib, and PT continues to be employed in the cardiovascular lab. So there still may be a place for its use. If you can do it without delaying care and the arrest is relatively fresh, there may be benefit.

Read full article: JEMS.com

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