Resuscitation skills of lay public after recent training

Abstract

To investigate the ability of laypeople to apply basic CPR techniques after recent training. Cross-sectional assessment of practical CPR skills. 151 laypeople who were trained twice in the preceding 20 to 24 months. Practical skills were tested using six primary recorded variables that describe the quality of CPR techniques in a training situation. A total score on the skills of each participant was computed on the basis of a predefined scoring system. Thirty-three percent of the participants were able to perform adequate CPR. The compression:relaxation ratio, the breathing volume, and the breathing interval were points of concern. Practical skills in basic CPR after a 12-month training interval, though better in this study than in many previous studies, are insufficient in the majority of laypeople. The results of this study could be used to design a better tailored (re)instruction program, with an emphasis on regular, frequent refresher courses.