Prehospital cardiopulmonary resuscitation knowledge and practice in Dubai

Background: Data on prehospital cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the United Arab Emirates are limited. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate CPR knowledge and practice among EMS personnel in Dubai. Methods: A cross-sectional, quantitative approach using a self-administered online questionnaire was used. Results: Most respondents were male, held an emergency medical technician – basic qualification and attended cardiac arrest cases monthly. Many applied manual compression before changing to a mechanical technique and believed this approach was associated with increased rates of return of spontaneous circulation. Most strongly agreed that adrenaline, amiodarone and early defibrillation improved outcomes. Many were neutral regarding endotracheal intubation, mechanical compressions in obese patients and pregnant women and the viability of resuscitation in patients with blunt or penetrating trauma injury. Conclusion: Many responses were neutral, which may reflect a lack of knowledge. Despite this, knowledge and practice aligned with international guidelines and practice. Larger robust studies, covering personnel with all types of qualifications and all emirates, are required.