COMPRESS-RCT
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A feasibility randomised controlled trial of mechanical chest compression devices for in-hospital cardiac arrest
IRAS ID
204160
Contact name
Jane Prewett
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Warwick
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 11 months, 30 days
Research summary
In the UK, 35,000 patients have a cardiac arrest in hospital each year. Unfortunately, less than one in five of these patients survives to leave hospital. Chest compressions are an essential treatment for cardiac arrest patients, but are often difficult for a person to deliver to a high standard (manual chest compressions). A mechanical chest compression device can be used to deliver chest compressions (mechanical chest compressions) instead of a person. Small studies suggest using these devices may improve patient survival when used as part of treatment for cardiac arrest patients in hospital.
We plan to test this in a large trial. Such a trial will be expensive and may be logistically difficult. Therefore, we plan to first undertake a small study (called a feasibility study) to ensure that a large trial can be done successfully.
This small study will take place in three hospitals over two years. 330 patients that have a cardiac arrest will participate. After initial treatment has been started (including manual chest compressions), patients will either continue to receive manual chest compressions or they will receive mechanical chest compressions. The treatment will be decided randomly. All patients will receive all other necessary treatments.
For this small study, we are mainly interested in how many patients take part. We will also collect information about the patient's hospital stay and see how they recover after leaving hospital.
Alongside this, we will interview NHS clinicians to identify factors that help or hinder study recruitment.
This study will provide important information about the practicality of undertaking a large trial, and may provide some early information about whether these devices are beneficial to use for patients that have a cardiac arrest in hospital.
This study is funded by the National Institute of Health Research.
REC name
West Midlands - Coventry & Warwickshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/WM/0299
Date of REC Opinion
12 Sep 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion