Training program in BLS and AED in a sporting organization: Easy to start but difficult to support in the time

Abstract

Purpose of the study: Survival in sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) depends on a sequence of interventions, the “chain of survival”, where basic life support (BLS) and early defibrillation are central links. We have tried to assess the feasibility of a training program in BLS and automated external defibrillators (AED) within the Andalusian Football Federation (AFF) and its maintenance over time. Materials and methods: The regulation for the use of an AED in Andalucía (south of Spain) requires an initial training course and then recertification every year. We launched a program where health professionals assigned to the AFF were trained as BLS instructors. Then “BLS and AED Courses” were offered to the staff (trainers, sport technicians, etc.) of the AFF local entities. Data were collected to analyze the results and viability of the project. Results: 25 AAF health professionals (20 of them doctors) were trained as BLS instructors. Since December 2005, 34 initial training courses have been developed in all provinces of Andalucía for a total number of 1190 providers. They were on average 26 years old (range: 18–62); 18.5% were women. 1163 professionals were credited in the use of AED. The satisfaction surveys revealed a means of fulfilling the objectives in 98%. From the beginning of the program a total number of 75 providers were present at only 3 recertification courses, being all of them recertified. Only 5 BLS instructors have participated regularly in the program, external instructors needed in many cases. Conclusions: The launch of a training program in BLS and AED in football is feasible and well appreciated by the recipients. It provides people who can make BLS and use an AED thus improving survival of SCA victims. The autonomous regulation – and other reasons – makes it difficult to maintain the program over time.