Psychische Belastung von Ersthelfenden eines Smartphone-basierten Ersthelferalarmierungssystems

Widespread implementation of smartphone-based first responder alert systems is considered by experts to represent the current state of science and technology and is essential for improving survival rates after cardiac arrest. Psychological burden, as well as the extent of accompanying support services for first responders involved in such systems, is a topic of controversial discussion.

Feedback from first responders, who were surveyed about their psychological stress situation using a standardized questionnaire after being activated as KATRETTER, was evaluated. A total of 20,478 datasets from the Berlin KATRETTER system from the period of October 16, 2020, to October 16, 2022, were retrospectively analyzed.

There were 12,939 responses regarding deployments, of which 4038 involved first responders who arrived at the patient’s location, and in 1403 cases actual cardiopulmonary resuscitation was reported. Overall, 2.78% of all first responders indicated that they found activation as KATRETTER to be stressful, while actual resuscitation efforts were generally perceived as less burdensome. More than 95% reported not being afraid of making a mistake.

Overall, a clear added value is seen in participating as a first responder, and individuals critically reflect on their own actions. Grief and anger can be normal reactions to extraordinary experiences in such deployments. Accompanying psychosocial support measures should be structurally maintained according to current recommendations.