Smarter faster just-in-time hemorrhage control: A pilot evaluation of remotely piloted aircraft system delivered STOP-THE-BLEED equipment with just-in-time remote telementored deployment

Abstract

Introduction: Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) can access patients inaccessible to traditional rescue. Just-in-time remote telementoring (RTM) of naïve users to self-care could potentially address challenges in salvaging exsanguination in remote environments. Methods: An exsanguination self-application task was established in a wilderness location. Three volunteers-initiated distress calls to prompt RPAS precision delivered STOP-THE-BLEED kits, after which a remote mentor directed the volunteers how to self-care. Results: Limited connectivity prevented video, however each volunteer delivered images and initiated conversation with the mentor pre-RPAS arrival. Thereafter, all subjects were able to unpack and deploy hemorrhage control adjuncts under verbal direction, and to simulate self-application. All subjects were able to successfully apply wound-clamps, tourniquets, and pack wounds although one had insufficient pressure. Discussion: RPASs can deliver supplies long before human rescuers, and communication connectivity might allow remote mentoring in device application. Further development of technology and self-care paradigms for exsanguination are encouraged.

Keywords

• Resuscitation
• Hemorrhage control
• Remotely piloted aircraft systems
• Remote telementoring
• Prehospital