Cardiopulmonary resuscitation skill training and retention in teens (CPR START): A randomized control trial in high school students

Aim

High school students are currently the largest group of individuals in the US receiving CPR training every year. This study examines the effect of adding a real-time visual feedback device to a standard instructor-led CPR course on skill acquisition and retention in high school students.

Methods

All study participants underwent baseline CPR skill testing and received a standard instructor-led compression-only CPR course. We then randomized students to a ‘Feedback Group’, consisting of 2 min of CPR training using a real-time visual feedback device, or ‘Standard Group’ that continued to practice on the inflatable manikin. CPR skills for all students were tested afterwards using the feedback device and reported as a compression score (CS) derived from their chest compression depth, rate, hand position, and full chest recoil. We compared the CS at baseline, week-0 (immediately post-intervention), week-10, week-28, and week-52 between groups.

Results

A total of 220 students were included in the analyses (Feedback Group = 110, Standard Group = 110). Both groups showed similar CPR performance at baseline. At week-0, the Feedback Group had a significantly higher CS compared to the Standard Group (adjusted difference: 20% [95% CI: 11%–29%; p < 0.001]). This difference attenuated over time but remained significant at the week-10 and week-28 follow-up; however, by the week-52 follow-up, there was no significant difference between groups.

Conclusions

Using a real-time visual feedback device during CPR training significantly improves skill acquisition and retention in high school students and should be integrated into the high school CPR curriculum.