Research highlights

A study of the administration of intranasal naloxone for heroin overdoses:
This randomised controlled trial aimed to determine the effectiveness of concentrated intranasal (IN) naloxone compared to intramuscular (IM) naloxone for treatment by paramedics of respiratory depression due to suspected opiate overdose.

Morphine versus ketamine for traumatic pain in the pre-hospital setting study:
This multi-centred randomised controlled trial compares the effect of morphine and ketamine to morphine alone in the treatment of moderate to severe traumatic pain in the pre-hospital setting.

Instruction of the Valsalva manoeuvre by MICA paramedics study:
This study aims to ascertain the current level of knowledge of MICA paramedics in performing the Valsalva manoeuvre (VM), as compared to the medical standard. Results from this study will be used to standardise education and training throughout Victoria.

Rapid sequence intubation (RSI) trial:
This randomised controlled trial began in April 2004 and concluded in March 2008. A total of 312 patients suffering head injury were randomised to receive RSI versus no intubation. The study aimed to determine the impact of RSI on survival and was the first pre-hospital randomised trial of RSI in the world. The trial was funded by the Victorian Trauma Foundation (VTF) and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

Pilot of AutoPulse cardiopulmonary resuscitation:
This pilot study began in 2007 and is designed to evaluate the impact of the Autopulse cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) device in improving survival from cardiac arrest in rural areas. Autopulse is a non-invasive cardiac support pump that is applied around the patient’s chest during cardiac arrest and circulates blood throughout the body in a similar fashion to manual CPR.

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