Question: In regards to the CPAP medical directive, it states in the ALS PCS Companion document that CPAP is the treatment for Acute Pulmonary Edema (REGARDLESS of origin). Does this mean that the cause does not need to be cardiogenic in nature? Could you please elaborate on this?

 Excellent question.  A patient with acute pulmonary edema does not need to result from a cardiogenic cause to meet the indications and contraindications for pre-hospital CPAP application by a PCP or ACP paramedic.  For example patients with pulmonary edema from neurogenic causes or submersion injury (drowning) may also qualify for pre-hospital CPAP.

Airway/Breathing,Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

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