A smartwatch-based CPR feedback device improves chest compression quality among health care professionals and lay rescuers

Background

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) quality significantly impacts patient outcomes during cardiac arrests. With advancements in health care technology, smartwatch-based CPR feedback devices have emerged as potential tools to enhance CPR delivery.

Objective

This study evaluated a novel smartwatch-based CPR feedback device in enhancing chest compression quality among health care professionals and lay rescuers.

Methods

A single-center, open-label, randomized crossover study was conducted with 30 subjects categorized into 3 groups based on rescuer category. The Relay Response BLS smartwatch application was compared to a defibrillator-based feedback device (Zoll OneStep CPR Pads). Following an introduction to the technology, subjects performed chest compressions in 3 modules: baseline unaided, aided by the smartwatch-based feedback device, and aided by the defibrillator-based feedback device. Outcome measures included effectiveness, learnability, and usability.

Results

Across all groups, the smartwatch-based device significantly improved mean compression depth effectiveness (68.4% vs 29.7%; P < .05) and mean rate effectiveness (87.5% vs 30.1%; P < .05), compared to unaided compressions. Compression variability was significantly reduced with the smartwatch-based device (coefficient of variation: 14.9% vs 26.6%), indicating more consistent performance. Fifteen of 20 professional rescuers reached effective compressions using the smartwatch-based device in an average 2.6 seconds. A usability questionnaire revealed strong preference for the smartwatch-based device over the defibrillator-based device.

Conclusion

The smartwatch-based device enhances the quality of CPR delivery by keeping compressions within recommended ranges and reducing performance variability. Its user-friendliness and rapid learnability suggest potential for widespread adoption in both professional and lay rescuer scenarios, contributing positively to CPR training and real-life emergency responses.