Abstract 18919: Awareness of Hands-only CPR in an Urban Minority Population

Abstract

Introduction: Hands-only CPR has been associated with improved survival rates for out of hospital cardiac arrest. There is wide geographic variation in bystander CPR rates and increased barriers to CPR knowledge in minority populations. Our aim was to assess the awareness and willingness to perform hands-only CPR in an ethnically diverse population. Methods: English-speaking patients in primary care and cardiac subspecialty clinics were approached to answer a 33 question survey. Demographic information was collected, and awareness of CPR and hands-only CPR was assessed. A brief instructional video of hands-only CPR was administered and willingness to perform hands-only CPR was assessed after. Results: Of 255 approached, 127 completed the survey. 53.4% were Hispanic or Black, and 81% spoke English at home. Median age was 49 years old, and majority were male (63%). 48% had a cardiac history or had a friend or family member with heart disease. 61% had no prior CPR training. The most common reasons identified for not doing CPR were fear of doing it incorrectly (33%) and no training (28%). 52% were unaware of hands-only CPR and 52% were unsure or unwilling to do CPR on a stranger. Willingness to perform CPR on a stranger was associated with higher educational level and prior training. After viewing the hands-only CPR instructional video,93% of those who were initially unsure or unwilling to do CPR were significantly more likely to do hands-only CPR (p<0.001). Conclusions: In this predominantly minority population, we found reduced awareness of hands-only CPR and demonstrated that an educational video can increase willingness to perform hands-only CPR. This educational tool can be used to target areas and populations where bystander CPR rates are low.