Evaluation of a newly developed media-supported 4-step approach for basic life support training

Saša Sopka,Jörg C Brokmann,Henning Biermann,Rolf Rossaint,Sebastian Knott,Nicole Heussen,Max Skorning,Stefan K Beckers

doi:10.1186/1757-7241-20-37

Abstract

ObjectiveThe quality of external chest compressions (ECC) is of primary importance within basic life support (BLS). Recent guidelines delineate the so-called 4“-step approach” for teaching practical skills within resuscitation training guided by a certified instructor. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether a “media-supported 4-step approach” for BLS training leads to equal practical performance compared to the standard 4-step approach.Materials and methodsAfter baseline testing, 220 laypersons were either trained using the widely accepted method for resuscitation training (4-step approach) or using a newly created “media-supported 4-step approach”, both of equal duration. In this approach, steps 1 and 2 were ensured via a standardised self-produced podcast, which included all of the information regarding the BLS algorithm and resuscitation skills. Participants were tested on manikins in the same mock cardiac arrest single-rescuer scenario prior to intervention, after one week and after six months with respect to ECC-performance, and participants were surveyed about the approach.ResultsParticipants (age 23 ± 11, 69% female) reached comparable practical ECC performances in both groups, with no statistical difference. Even after six months, there was no difference detected in the quality of the initial assessment algorithm or delay concerning initiation of CPR. Overall, at least 99% of the intervention group (n = 99; mean 1.5 ± 0.8; 6-point Likert scale: 1 = completely agree, 6 = completely disagree) agreed that the video provided an adequate introduction to BLS skills.ConclusionsThe “media-supported 4-step approach” leads to comparable practical ECC-performance compared to standard teaching, even with respect to retention of skills. Therefore, this approach could be useful in special educational settings where, for example, instructors’ resources are sparse or large-group sessions have to be prepared.

Highlights

Within cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), external chest compressions (ECC) are the key element providing forward blood flow, thereby maintaining heart and brain viability
The “media-supported 4-step approach” leads to comparable practical ECC-performance compared to standard teaching, even with respect to retention of skills
This methodology was implemented as a basic principle of various course formats by the European Resuscitation Council (ERC); it is taught in all generic instructor courses [14]

Summary

Introduction

Within cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), external chest compressions (ECC) are the key element providing forward blood flow, thereby maintaining heart and brain viability. This methodology was established based on the work of Peyton and was adapted by Bullock [1] for courses taught by the Resuscitation Council of the United Kingdom. There is no evidence that this approach leads to superior learning outcomes compared to other teaching methods. For this reason, recently published work is analysing the importance of the different steps [5] and their general performance as a whole with respect to skills acquisition [6]

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Results

Conclusion