Influence of physical activity of the rescuer on chest compression duration and its effects on hemodynamics and fatigue levels of the rescuer: A simulation-based study

Background: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a lifesaving skill performed during the cardiac arrest. Various factors of rescuer affect CPR quality, and rescuers physical fitness is one among the important factors needs to be explored for improved CPR quality. This study aimed to assess the physical activity (PA) levels of the health care providers (HCPs) who were trained in basic life support (BLS) and its relationship on chest compression duration, hemodynamic parameters, and fatigue levels of the rescuers. Materials and methods: A single-center, cross-sectional study was conducted on 48 HCPs who were trained in BLS within one year. Eligible participants were contacted by email, and the responders’ level of PA was determined using the global physical activity questionnaire (GPAQ). The participants were recruited for chest compression-only cardiac arrest scenarios. Each subject performed continuous chest compression on the manikin until they perceived maximum fatigue. Heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), oxygen saturation (SpO2), and fatigue level were assessed at baseline, immediately after and following two minutes of cessation of chest compressions. The total duration of chest compression was also documented. Results: Most participants (24, 50%) reported high levels of PA while 22 (45.83%) and 2 (4.17%) reported moderate and low intensity of PA, respectively. The mean age of the 35 participants was 26.08 ± 4.60 years. The mean duration of chest compressions was 193.25 seconds with higher times reported for those with high PA when compared to those with moderate PA (p = 0.017). Similar findings were also observed for fatigue. Conclusion: Rescuers who reported high PA had lower levels of fatigue and could perform longer duration of chest compressions.