Subconscious Passive Learning of CPR Techniques through Television Medical Drama

Abstract

A cardiac arrest victim's chances of survival are largely dependant on the availability at the scene, of a witness familiar with CPR skills. Many efforts have been invested in teaching CPR skills to as many people as possible and new ways are constantly being researched to distribute and extend these skills to the wider population. We report a case whose survival was due to CPR performed by a lay family member with no previous official training in resuscitation. The rescuer admitted that she had recalled the CPR technique from a popular medical drama on television (TV) and that she was absolutely unaware of her CPR potential capabilities. TV producers and health policy makers should exploit highly rated TV feature programs such as medical dramas to transmit useful hidden messages such as CPR skill to the public. In due time this policy may prove to be a life saver.