Nursing interventions in the management of cardiac arrest cases in emergency
Authors: Bahanshel Mohammed Ahmed , Alruwas Mutlaq Gatar N , Al-Shammari Turki Suleiman Aqeel , Alotaibi Adil Mubarak F , Alshammari Khalid Saad Matar , Almotairi Meajeb Abdullah , Binoraij Muqrin Saud Ibrahim , Aldalili Amira Yousef Ali , Almakhaita Muna Ali Hamad 
Published: December 2024

Background: Cardiac arrest is a life-threatening medical emergency with significant implications for patient survival and neurological function. In emergency room (ER) settings, where time-sensitive interventions are crucial, the management of cardiac arrest requires a coordinated approach between emergency nurses and medical teams. Despite advancements in resuscitation techniques, challenges in protocol adherence, resource availability, and training gaps can impact patient outcomes, especially in critical situations. Effective nursing interventions are crucial in the rapid identification, management, and support of patients during cardiac arrest events. Aim: This paper aims to evaluate the effectiveness of modern resuscitation protocols, including Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and European Resuscitation Council (ERC) guidelines, in the management of cardiac arrest in emergency and nursing care settings. The paper will assess the impact of these protocols on patient outcomes, identify challenges specific to emergency and nursing teams, and explore strategies to optimize resuscitation practices for better survival and neurological recovery. Methods: A thorough review of the existing literature and clinical data was conducted, focusing on studies examining the effectiveness of cardiac arrest management protocols in ER settings. Key outcome measures included survival rates, neurological recovery, time-to-intervention, and protocol adherence. Furthermore, barriers to effective resuscitation, such as inconsistent implementation of protocols, resource limitations, and inadequate training, were analyzed. The review also explored the role of innovative technologies like extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and real-time feedback devices in enhancing resuscitation efforts. Results: The evaluation indicates that adherence to modern resuscitation protocols, including early defibrillation, high-quality CPR, and post-resuscitation care, significantly improves survival and neurological outcomes. However, variability in protocol adherence, resource constraints, and lack of standardized training continue to pose challenges. In particular, the collaboration between emergency nurses and medical professionals plays a pivotal role in the rapid application of resuscitation measures. Innovations such as ECMO and real-time feedback devices have shown potential in addressing some of the barriers to effective care and improving patient outcomes in emergency settings. Conclusion: Effective management of cardiac arrest in emergency room settings relies heavily on the proper implementation of standardized protocols. For optimal survival and neurological recovery, it is crucial to address systemic barriers, invest in continuous training for emergency nursing staff, and incorporate emerging technologies. By enhancing coordination between emergency medical teams and nursing professionals, resuscitation practices can be significantly improved. Future research should focus on refining resuscitation protocols, ensuring equitable implementation across diverse healthcare settings, and examining the integration of advanced technologies to improve patient care.