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Post-Resuscitation Care

Debriefing

Last Full Review: ILCOR 2020
Last Update: 2021

Debriefing following delivery of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a strategy to potentially increase the quality of resuscitation.

Red Cross Guidelines

  • Debriefings following a resuscitation should be conducted to reinforce positive actions and to identify system issues for improvement.

 

 

Evidence Summary

The use of cardiac arrest debriefing has been associated with a significant improvement in CPR quality and return of spontaneous circulation (Edelson et al. 2008, 1063) and associated with improved survival to discharge (Chan et al. 2016, 189). In addition, expert opinion and standard of performance improvement support the use of debriefing to reinforce team behavior and identify areas for improvement.

 

Insights and Implications

Two forms of debriefing are common. Immediate or “hot” debriefing occurs immediately following an event and may include individuals or teams. “Cold” debriefing is the delayed provision of feedback. Both strategies may be viewed as learning opportunities and useful for improving the quality of resuscitation.