Are smart glasses feasible for dispatch prehospital assistance during on-boat cardiac arrest? A pilot simulation study with fishermen

Abstract

The aim of the study was to explore feasibility of basic life support (BLS) guided through smart glasses (SGs) when assisting fishermen bystanders. Twelve participants assisted a simulated out-of-hospital cardiac arrest on a fishing boat assisted by the dispatcher through the SGs. The SGs were connected to make video calls. Feasibility was assessed whether or not they needed help from the dispatcher. BLS-AED steps, time to first shock/compression, and CPR’s quality (hands-only) during 2 consecutive minutes (1st minute without dispatcher feedback, 2nd with dispatcher feedback) were analyzed. Reliability was analyzed by comparing the assessment of variables performed by the dispatcher through SGs with those registered by an on-scene instructor. Assistance through SGs was needed in 72% of the BLS steps, which enabled all participants to perform the ABC approach and use AED correctly. Feasibility was proven that dispatcher’s feedback through SGs helped to improve bystanders’ performance, as after dispatcher gave feedback via SGs, only 3% of skills were incorrect. Comparison of on-scene instructor vs. SGs assessment by dispatcher differ in 8% of the analyzed skills: greatest difference in the "incorrect hand position during CPR" (on-scene: 33% vs. dispatcher: 0%). When comparing the 1st minute with 2nd minute, there were only significant differences in the percentage of compressions with correct depth (1st:48 ± 42%, 2nd:70 ± 31, p = 0.02). Using SGs in aquatic settings is feasible and improves BLS. CPR quality markers were similar with and without SG. These devices have great potential for communication between dispatchers and laypersons but need more development to be used in real emergencies.

Application of Technology in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, a Narrative Review

“…In one study which compared chest compression quality performed by individuals wearing and not wearing the glasses, there was no significant difference, however, there was improvement in the ability of glasses wearers to complete the basic life support (BLS) protocol, open an airway, check breathing, position AED pads, and deliver a shock [54]. These results were echoed by another pilot study which found that CPR quality was not improved with the usage of smart glasses but did note that out of 96 skills that were assessed using the smart glasses, assistance by the dispatcher was given in 65 steps (72% of interventions) with the majority of the assistance related to AED usage [55].…”