Developing and Testing Drone-Delivered AEDs for Cardiac Arrests In Rural America

Launched by DUKE UNIVERSITY · Jan 19, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring a new way to deliver Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) using drones in rural areas. AEDs are devices that can help restart the heart during a cardiac arrest, which is when the heart suddenly stops beating. The goal of this project is to see if drones can get these lifesaving devices to people experiencing cardiac arrest faster than current emergency services can. By testing this method, the researchers hope to find out if it can improve the chances of survival for patients who experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital.

To participate in this trial, individuals must be at least 18 years old and have experienced a non-traumatic cardiac arrest before help arrives. This means that if someone had a heart attack or their heart stopped beating and a bystander used an AED on them before emergency responders arrived, they may be eligible. It's important to note that this trial is still in the planning stages and is not currently recruiting participants. If you or a loved one meets the criteria, you may have an opportunity to contribute to important research that could improve emergency care in rural communities.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Patients 18 years of age or older in the CARES registry who suffer cardiac arrest before arrival of a 911-responder of non-traumatic cause, including patients who receive an AED shock by a bystander prior to the arrival of 911 responders.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Patients in the CARES registry who have a traumatic cause of cardiac arrest.