ObjectivesVideo streaming has recently been introduced as an additional tool for communication between medical dispatchers and caller. Research implies that video streaming may be a useful tool for the dispatchers, but more knowledge is needed. With this study, we wanted to explore how the dispatchers experience using video streaming as an additional tool in medical emergency calls.DesignAn explorative, qualitative study using semi-structured focus group interviews.SettingTwo emergency medical communications centres in Norway where video streaming recently had been introduced. Interviews were conducted during 24 June 2020 and 26 June 2020.ParticipantsWe recruited 25 medical dispatchers, either nurses or emergency medical technicians who worked at the two centres.ResultsThe results are categorised into three themes: (1) change in dispatcher’s perception of the patient and the situation, (2) reassurance for the dispatcher and (3) worries about increased time consumption and the possibility of unpleasant images.ConclusionThe dispatchers experienced that the use of video streaming in medical emergency calls might contribute to a better comprehension of the situation and following more precise resource allocation, as well as greater reassurance for the dispatcher and improved relationship between the dispatcher and the caller. Further research with an aim to measure effects and safety of video streaming during medical emergency calls is needed.
Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Objectives The aim of this study was to assess the number of AF catheter ablations appropriate before decision of pacemaker implantation and AV node ablation. Background The main purpose of AF treatment strategy, including both therapies aimed to maintain sinus rhythm and therapies that control the rate, is symptomatic improvement. Complex decision-making is involved in the choice of strategy. Indication for AF catheter ablation is the presence of symptomatic paroxysmal or persistent AF. However, many patients suffer from arrhythmia recurrence. Atrioventricular (AV) node ablation is a therapeutic option when AF is refractory to other therapeutic options. Methods This is a retrospective study based on patients recruited from the local database at Haukeland university hospital. Criteria for inclusion were patients with highly symptomatic AF after two or more AF catheter ablations and finally pacemaker and AV node ablation. Symptomatic improvement and quality of life were assessed using modified European Heart Rhythm Association (mEHRA) classification and self-evaluation. Results A total 23 patients were included in the study. After repeated AF catheter ablations, 7 (30.4%) patients had improvement in mEHRA class, most often by one class (n = 6). The improvement after AV node ablation were more significant (6 patients by 1 mEHRA class, 7 by 2, 5 by 3). According to the self-evaluation after AV node ablation, 18 patients were satisfied with respect to quality of life. The number of hospitalization were reduced from more than 6 per year (n = 11) to zero (n = 17) per year. Only one patient, among the 12 with only two AF catheter ablations, would prefer further attempts at AF catheter ablation. Retrospectively, 7 out 11 patients with at least 3 AF catheter ablations had preferred earlier pacemaker implantation and AV node ablation. Conclusion AV node ablation after several AF catheter ablations is a good option according to patients experience. In selected groups, recognized to have lower clinical efficacy of pulmonary vein isolation, AV node ablation might be considered after 2 or 3 unsuccessful AF catheter ablations.
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