Published: April 2021. Next review: 2026.
Mechanical cardiopulmonary resuscitation (mCPR) is delivered using an automated device that provides the external chest compression component of cardiopulmonary resuscitation at a consistent depth and rate.
This clinical practice guide supports clinicians to provide safe, high-quality care when a decision is being made to use a mCPR device during in-hospital cardiac arrest.
At a glance
mCPR is used in the following areas of the hospital during in-hospital cardiac arrest:
- emergency departments
- intensive care units
- cardiology units
- cardiac catheter labs
Key points must be considered when deploying a mCPR device:
- Good-quality manual chest compressions must remain the gold standard for the delivery of external chest compressions during CPR.
- Early defibrillation of a shockable rhythm must not be delayed.
- CPR must be commenced immediately for cardiac arrest, with no delay while waiting for a decision on the deployment of a mCPR device.
The decision to use an mCPR device during in-hospital cardiac arrest must take into account key considerations and recommendations to ensure patients receive appropriate care at the right time, and that clinicians are supported to provide safe, high-quality care during mCPR deployment.