The Non-pneumatic Anti-Shock Garment: How Applier Strength and Body Mass Index Affect External Abdominal Pressure

Abstract

Abstract:Objective: To assess the amount of abdominal pressure generated by the Non-pneumatic Anti-Shock Garment (NASG), a first-aid counter pressure device for obstetric hemorrhage, and to evaluate if body mass index (BMI) and applier strength, affect pressure.Study Design: A pilot study convenience sample of 20 non-pregnant volunteers underwent external abdominal pressure monitoring with NASG placement. Mean pressure and the effects of BMI and applier strength were examined. Results:The mean external abdominal pressure significantly increased from 1.0 mmHg at baseline to 67 mmHg on NASG application, returning to 1.0 mmHg upon removal (p=0.005). Greater mean pressure was exerted by a strong applier versus a weak applier, irrespective of BMI (p<0.001). Pressure had an inverse relationship with BMI, particularly with a strong applier (r=-0.905, p<0.001). The difference between pressures achieved in an underweight patient with a strong applier and an overweight patient with a weak applier was significant (73.2 vs 35.7 mmHg; p=0.051). Conclusion:This pilot study demonstrates a significant increase in abdominal pressure with device application and significant variation with BMI and applier strength. These findings may have important implications for optimizing device usage.

Obstetric hemorrhage in resource‐limited locations: A quality improvement project after adoption of abdominopelvic compression devices

“…Both are bulky and need to be manufactured, imported, and distributed, and may not be readily available where needed. The NASG costs approximately US $55–75 and is tightened by forcefully stretching its neoprene, which can be difficult for a small or single provider to accomplish 13 . The PASG costs approximately US $500 and is more complex to operate.…”