Debriefing after in-hospital cardiopulmonary resuscitation—Does it work? A literature review

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study is to analyze the efficiency of BLS courses in an andalusian rural population, after a massive BLS training program (Plan Salvavidas). Materials and methods: From January 2003 to September 2009 we have trained 3493 persons in BLS. Four hours instructorled training courses were undertaken according to the Spanish National Plan of CPR (ERC supported). In 2010, we carried out a telephonic survey, asking pupils about out of hospital emergency (OHE) situations witnessed. Statistical analysis included bivariate and successive backward steps multivariate analysis. Results: We have called 3493 pupils of BLS courses. 1131 answered correctly our survey. Mean age was 26.7 years, 59%were women. OHE witness rate was 10.43% (118 pupils). Life support techniques were applied in 87.5% of cases, including: call EMS 49%, mouth to mouth 42%, chest compressions 49%, airway obstruction treatment 24%, recovery position 19%. Location ofOHEwere: public enclosures 27.3%, street 23.9%, home 20.5%, work place 13.6%, road 11.1%. The time delayed between BLS course date and first emergency witness was less than one year in 20.3% of cases, two years in 39.8% and higher in 39.9%. Ifwe assumea cost of course of 1000Euros for 20pupils. According to the rate of intervention of every 20 pupils trained 2.1 are going to attend an OHE. Therefore the cost for intervention is 476.2 Euros. Ifwe apply this cost to the interventions in thefirst twoyears after the course it rises up to 2.220 Euros. Conclusions: The results of the efficiency analysis revealed that the cost per intervention performed in our environment was not high. However, many people would have to be trained to produce a measurable impact on the overall statistics for interventions by witnesses.