The Role of General Pediatric Physicians as Acting Cardiologists during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Prospective Observational Study Protocol
Thamer Almemony *
Clinical Skills and Simulation Center, Eastern Region, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Hakem Shakkour
Clinical Skills and Simulation Center, Eastern Region, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Pediatric in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) is a rare but life-threatening event requiring rapid rhythm recognition and strict adherence to Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) guidelines. In many hospitals with limited resources, pediatric cardiologists are not routinely available during resuscitation events. Consequently, general pediatric physicians are often required to assume advanced leadership roles, including rhythm interpretation and decision-making during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Objective: This study protocol aims to evaluate the performance of general pediatric physicians acting as cardiologists during pediatric CPR, with a specific focus on rhythm recognition accuracy, adherence to PALS algorithms, and execution of critical resuscitation decisions in hospitals with limited pediatric cardiology availability.
Methods: This protocol describes a prospective observational study to be conducted in pediatric wards of hospitals with 50–100 beds where on-site pediatric cardiology services are not consistently available. The study population will include general pediatric physicians participating in pediatric resuscitation events. Data collection will involve structured, non-interventional observation of real pediatric CPR events using standardized checklists. Planned outcome measures include accuracy of rhythm recognition, compliance with PALS protocols, time to key interventions, and overall resuscitation team coordination. Data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics, with comparative analysis planned based on training status where applicable.
Expected Impact: The findings generated from this protocol are expected to provide evidence supporting structured PALS training, simulation-based education, and formal recognition of emergency resuscitation roles for general pediatric physicians. The study aims to contribute to improved preparedness, guideline adherence, and pediatric resuscitation outcomes in resource-limited hospital settings.
Keywords: Pediatric cardiac arrest, general pediatric physicians, PALS, rhythm recognition, study protocol, resuscitation team performance