Coastal Valleys EMS Agency is issuing Special Memo # 26-003, which modifies the Cardiac Arrest Management Treatment Guideline to reflect an earlier consideration for endotracheal intubation during adult cardiac arrest.
Effective immediately, the guideline has been revised to allow consideration of endotracheal intubation after six (6) rounds of high-quality CPR, when clinically appropriate and when the procedure can be performed without compromising chest compression quality or other high-priority resuscitation interventions.
This change reflects the direction of our EMS Medical Director following a review of current evidence, clinical experience, and system priorities. While high-quality CPR, early defibrillation when indicated, and minimizing interruptions in chest compressions remain the primary priorities of cardiac arrest management, earlier consideration of advanced airway placement may provide benefits in selected patients.
All other aspects of the Cardiac Arrest Management Treatment Guideline remain unchanged. EMS agencies should review Special Memo # 26-003 with their personnel and incorporate this update into training and operational practice as appropriate.
Thank you for your continued commitment to providing high-quality prehospital care throughout our EMS system.
If you have any questions regarding this update or its implementation, please do not hesitate to contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
EMS Special memo 26 003 attached HERE