ILCOR's 2024 Consensus Emphasizes Immediate CPR and Post-Resuscitation Care

In November 2024, the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) published its 2024 International Consensus on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care Science With Treatment Recommendations. This comprehensive update aims to refine practices in resuscitation and post-resuscitation care, offering actionable insights for healthcare providers worldwide.

Immediate CPR on a Firm Surface

The updated guidelines highlight the importance of initiating CPR on a firm surface. Studies have shown that chest compressions performed on a hard surface are more effective at maintaining adequate blood circulation during cardiac arrest. However, ILCOR stresses that immediate action takes precedence—delaying CPR to relocate the patient should be avoided unless it can be done quickly and safely.

This emphasis is based on research compiled by ILCOR’s Resuscitation Science Task Force, which found that high-quality compressions on a firm surface significantly improve outcomes compared to compressions performed on a soft surface. The goal is to balance effectiveness with timeliness to maximize survival rates and minimize complications.

Post-Resuscitation Care

For patients who achieve the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) after cardiac arrest, ILCOR has provided clear targets for hemodynamic management:

• Adults: The guidelines recommend maintaining a mean arterial pressure (MAP) of at least 60-65 mmHg to ensure proper perfusion of vital organs. This target is based on evidence showing improved neurological outcomes when perfusion pressures are adequately maintained.
• Children: Pediatric patients require a systolic blood pressure above the 10th percentile for their age. This age-specific threshold ensures that the unique physiological needs of children are met during post-resuscitation care.

These recommendations aim to standardize post-resuscitation protocols across healthcare systems, ensuring consistent and effective care for patients of all ages.

Impact on Global Resuscitation Practices

ILCOR’s 2024 Consensus underscores its commitment to evidence-based practices that enhance survival rates and neurological outcomes following cardiac arrest. By integrating the latest research, the guidelines aim to provide a unified approach for resuscitation care globally.

The updated recommendations also focus on strengthening the link between CPR quality and post-resuscitation management. Healthcare providers are encouraged to adopt these protocols and undergo continuous training to stay aligned with evolving practices.

Sources

1. International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR). “2024 International Consensus on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care Science With Treatment Recommendations.” Published November 2024. Access the full guidelines.
2. Resuscitation Science Task Force. “The Importance of Immediate CPR on a Firm Surface.” Published November 2024. Available at ILCOR Costr.
3. ILCOR Pediatric Care Recommendations. “Post-Resuscitation Blood Pressure Targets for Children.” Published November 2024. Available at ILCOR Pediatric Guidelines.
4. Mean Arterial Pressure Targets in ROSC. “Improving Neurological Outcomes After Cardiac Arrest.” Published November 2024. Available at ILCOR Adult Guidelines.