Public access defibrillation in the Caribbean: the time has come

ABSTRACT

Recent technological advances in resuscitation equipment and procedures have opened the door for some developing countries to consider implementing early defibrillation programmes. This is particularly true in the Caribbean, where urbanisation is rapidly altering the nature of health problems, and public expectations of healthcare delivery is rapidly rising. However before an SCD victim in the Caribbean can expect to be rescued from a cardiac arrest there is much work to be done. 'Core ACLS' courses that emphasise the critical aspects of ACLS, coupled with widespread teaching programmes aimed at educating the general public about cardiovascular resuscitation, should be initiated. Before full advantage can be taken of recent technological advances, and emergency medical systems can become a reality in the Caribbean, a comprehensive approach to the introduction of resuscitative practices should be considered (AU)