Abstract: A chest containment system utilizes a thoracic cavity belt circumscribing a patient's chest for supporting a compression device in contact with the chest. Buckles are provided to tighten the belt. A supplemental strap is positioned over the top of the compression device and is releasably secured to each end thereof to the thoracic cavity belt at each side of the thoracic cavity.

Abstract: A chest containment system incorporates a restraint for circumscribing a patient's chest and having a handle attached to or contacting the restraint that is positionable over the patient's sternum. The handle is adapted to be grasped by an operator or first responder's hand to apply a downward force to the sternum and followed by an upward force, creating tension in the restraint, to increase the efficacy of resuscitation and enhance perfusion and veinous return.