These are the definitive CPR guidelines for veterinary health professionals worldwide.
According to Dr. Manuel Boller, Co-chair of the Initiative, “The publication of these new guidelines represents a pivotal event in veterinary resuscitation science. These updates incorporate new scientific evidence, feedback from the veterinary community, and the latest advancements, directly enhancing how we perform life-saving CPR on pets.”
Key Updates and Their Rationale:
The revised guidelines, which introduce essential changes that reflect the latest in veterinary science and practice, are available in an open-access issue of Wiley’s Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care and at the RECOVER Initiative website (https://recoverinitiative.org/).
Key Updates Include:
- Chest Compression Techniques: Enhanced methods for cats and small dogs to optimize survival during cardiac arrest.
- Compression Depths and Techniques: Adjustments tailored to an animal’s size and chest shape, improving CPR effectiveness.
- Breathing Support Methods: Revised for non-intubated patients, focusing on rescuer safety.
- Medication Dosages and Procedures: Updated for more precise and effective treatment during CPR.
“Thanks to a rigorous review of over 1,370 studies by 102 volunteer evidence evaluators, these updates embody our commitment to the highest standards of evidence-based veterinary practice,” states Dr. Jamie Burkitt, Co-chair of RECOVER.
A new streamlined CPR algorithm, updated drug dosing charts, and an ECG diagnosis algorithm will standardize CPR practices globally. The enhanced RACE-approved training courses are set to equip 400 RECOVER Certified Instructors worldwide to certify veterinary professionals in performing these life-saving techniques.
Experts worldwide and across disciplines collaborated on developing the treatment recommendations. “The 2024 RECOVER CPR Guidelines are the first veterinary clinical guidelines developed using a rigorous process known as GRADE. Most human clinical guideline organizations use this approach, including the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation, which produces human CPR guidelines. We’re proud to continue RECOVER’s commitment to the highest standards for clinical practice across all species and are so grateful to the volunteers who helped make this happen,” explains Dr. Dan Fletcher, Co-chair of RECOVER.
The primary goal of the RECOVER 2024 CPR Guidelines is to improve CPR outcomes in veterinary patients, mirroring the advancements seen in human medical care through the broad acceptance of evidence-based CPR guidelines. These guidelines, training courses, and an official certification process underscore the importance of preparedness in emergency situations, particularly in general practice settings where reversible causes of cardiopulmonary arrest, such as anesthesia-related issues, present opportunities to save lives.
The RECOVER Initiative calls on veterinary professionals and pet owners alike to embrace these updated guidelines immediately. Adopting these practices is crucial to enhancing acute care outcomes for our beloved pets, ensuring the best possible results. Further guidelines on Newborn Resuscitation, Prevention and Preparedness, and First Aid are expected in the near future. Watch for upcoming webinars and conference offerings detailing the updates to the new guidelines.
About the RECOVER Initiative:
The RECOVER Initiative, a not-for-profit leader in evidence-based CPR Guidelines and training, has empowered veterinary professionals, pet professionals, and pet owners worldwide since 2012 through education, science, and community. With a network of 400 certified instructors, RECOVER sets global standards in lifesaving care. For more detailed information on the updated guidelines and to access training resources, visit https://recoverinitiative.org/.
Contact:
Ruth Garcia
Executive Director
[email protected]
