Augmented Reality Learning Environment for Basic Life Support and Defibrillation Training: Usability Study.

Pier Luigi Ingrassia,Eleonora Giudici,Francesco Strada,Giulia Mormando,Fabrizio Lamberti,Andrea Bottino,Fabio Carfagna

doi:10.2196/14910

Abstract

BackgroundBasic life support (BLS) is crucial in the emergency response system, as sudden cardiac arrest is still a major cause of death worldwide. Unfortunately, only a minority of victims receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) from bystanders. In this context, training could be helpful to save more lives, and technology-enhanced BLS simulation is one possible solution.ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to assess the feasibility and acceptability of our augmented reality (AR) prototype as a tool for BLS training.MethodsHolo-BLSD is an AR self-instruction training system, in which a standard CPR manikin is “augmented” with an interactive virtual environment that reproduces realistic scenarios. Learners can use natural gestures, body movements, and spoken commands to perform their tasks, with virtual 3D objects anchored to the manikin and the environment. During the experience, users were trained to use the device while being guided through an emergency simulation and, at the end, were asked to complete a survey to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the proposed tool (5-point Likert scale; 1=Strongly Disagree, 5=Strongly Agree).ResultsThe system was rated easy to use (mean 4.00, SD 0.94), and the trainees stated that most people would learn to use it very quickly (mean 4.00, SD 0.89). Voice (mean 4.48, SD 0.87), gaze (mean 4.12, SD 0.97), and gesture interaction (mean 3.84, SD 1.14) were judged positively, although some hand gesture recognition errors reduced the feeling of having the right level of control over the system (mean 3.40, SD 1.04).ConclusionsWe found the Holo-BLSD system to be a feasible and acceptable tool for AR BLS training.

Highlights

Sudden cardiac arrest is a major cause of death in adults in developed countries [1]
The standard approach to Basic life support (BLS) training of laypeople involves classroom-based courses consisting of skill demonstrations, hands-on practice, and lectures given by a certified trainer [5]
Self-directed learning systems are an effective alternative to the standard approach, which, according to multiple studies reported by the American Heart Association guidelines, show no statistical difference in learning outcomes compared with instructor-led courses [5]

Summary

Introduction

Sudden cardiac arrest is a major cause of death in adults in developed countries [1]. Laypeople and health care providers are increasingly trained, only a minority of cardiac arrest survivors receive bystander CPR. Debriefing provides an important learning moment in simulation sessions, as it gives participants the opportunity to critically reflect on decisions and actions performed and to learn from mistakes [7]. Basic life support (BLS) is crucial in the emergency response system, as sudden cardiac arrest is still a major cause of death worldwide. Only a minority of victims receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) from bystanders. In this context, training could be helpful to save more lives, and technology-enhanced BLS simulation is one possible solution

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion