Training prevalence, knowledge and attitudes towards cardiopulmonary resuscitation: a survey amongst 5,921 preschool and school teachers

Abstract

Abstract Purpose Preschool and school teachers could play an important role both in training children in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and in providing necessary help in case of witnessing an emergency. This study aimed to investigate prevalence of CPR training, CPR knowledge, attitudes and willingness to perform CPR among preschool and school teachers in the territory of the Republic of Crimea, in the northern Black Sea region. Methods An anonymous online questionnaire survey was conducted in February–March 2021 utilizing Google Forms. In particular, the participants were asked to rate their knowledge of CPR and willingness to perform CPR (on a stranger, a pupil or a loved one) on a 5-point scale, and to indicate recommended chest compression rate and hand position for compressions. Results Out of 5,921 surveyed teachers, 3,765 (64%) reported previous CPR training. Among the trained, 55% attended training more than one year ago, 44% completed a CPR training course once. Reasons for not being trained were most commonly reported as “never thought about the need to go for training” (42%), “nobody demanded me to get trained” (38%) or “did not know where to attend the training” (21%). Self-perceived knowledge of CPR was rated as follows: very good – 0.4%, good – 7.8%, moderate – 37.8%, poor – 44.6%, absent – 9.4%. Hand position for giving chest compressions was indicated correctly by 66% participants, compression rate – by 16% respondents. Correct answering to the questions and higher self-perceived knowledge were associated with previous CPR training (p<0.001). 54% reported they wish to get trained in CPR. 28% confirmed readiness to teach CPR as part of their extracurricular work (provided that they will get preliminary training, and upon availability of proper training supplies and instructional program). Proportion of respondents who expressed high willingness to attempt CPR (4–5 points) on a stranger, a pupil or a loved one amounted to 35%, 41% and 64%, respectively, mean level or readiness to perform CPR – 3.0, 3.1 and 3.8 points, respectively. Willingness to perform CPR was positively associated with previous CPR training and level of CPR knowledge (p<0.001). Fear to cause harm to a victim and lack of CPR knowledge and skills were most commonly reported as the strongest barriers to attempt CPR (reported by 49–51% and 31–36% respondents, respectively, depending on the type of supposed victim). Conclusions Coverage of the preschool and school teachers with recent CPR training is limited, levels of knowledge and self-confidence in CPR are generally low. Lack of competence impede readiness of the teachers to attempt CPR. There is a demand in enhancing involvement of teachers in CPR training and retraining in the Republic of Crimea. Most teachers want to get trained in CPR, and almost one third agree to teach CPR themselves, suggesting a reasonable way to improve availability of CPR training for both teachers and pupils. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.