Principles of cardiopulmonary cerebral resuscitation in special species

Cardiopulmonary-cerebral resuscitation (CPCR) is a comprehensive term used to describe both the basic principles of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) as well as advanced life support and postresuscitation care. Although there are numerous publications on CPCR in humans and small animals, there is little written on CPCR in special species. This article outlines the basic principles of CPCR, including the current recommendations from the human International Guidelines 2000 Conference on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care. Although many of the basic principles of CPCR are applicable to any species, the important physiologic differences when applying these principles to special species are discussed. When appropriate, potential modifications are proposed for individual species. The final portion of the paper includes special considerations for avian, reptile and small mammals, as well as quick reference charts for CPCR in small mammals and avian/reptile patients.