Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Performance may Improve with Consideration of Performer’s Characteristics

Abstract

Background: In basic life support, chest compressions are a very important and basic skill. Acquiring the ability to perform chest compressions is affected by individual characteristics such as physique and physical strength, although all persons can learn to Perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), including chest compressions. The aim of this study was to examine differences in physique between males and females and Basic Life Support (BLS) skill using a portable manikin with automated corrective feedback.Methods: Participants were 120 fourth-year preclinical dental school students (87 males, 33 females). For skill assessment, students performed chest compressions and single rescuer CPR using a Laerdal Resusci Anne Skill Reporter TM manikin for 2 minutes each before and after CPR. Outcome measures were (1) compression depth (mm), (2) compression rate (number of compressions per minute), (3) compression release depth (recoil, mm), and (4) hand position before and after the BLS course.Results: After the BLS course, compression depth and rate improved significantly. Both before and after the BLS course, male students performed deeper chest compressions than female students. In females, the duration of acceptable chest compressions was significantly shorter than in males.Conclusion: CPR performance was significantly different between males and females, probably due to differences in physique. Therefore, it is necessary for individualized instruction adapted to the learner’s characteristics.