A peer-training model for instruction of basic cardiac life support

Resuscitation. 1995 Apr;29(2):119-28. doi: 10.1016/0300-9572(94)00835-4.

Abstract

This study evaluates a peer-training model for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) instruction for laypersons. Forty-one Norwegian factory employees were trained in CPR and given instructor training. These first trainees then trained 311 co-workers. These employees then trained 873 family members and associates at home. The reference group consists of employees in a Massachusetts commercial hotel trained in seven American Red Cross (ARC): Adult CPR classes. The Norwegian home trainees learned CPR using a cardboard training manikin and were trained by Norwegian factory employees who had learned CPR from co-workers. Trainees were evaluated using skill sheets and a Laerdal Skillmeter manikin. The performance of the Norwegians trained at home by peers did not differ from that of the ARC: Adult CPR trainees in six skills of the initial sequence of CPR. The home trainees outperformed the ARC: Adult CPR trainees in the proportion of compressions delivered correctly (P = 0.032) and ventilations delivered correctly (P = 0.015). Peer training may provide CPR instruction comparable to training in CPR classes at lower cost and with potential to reach new population segments.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Analysis of Variance
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation* / education
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation* / methods
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation* / statistics & numerical data
  • Humans
  • Massachusetts
  • Models, Educational
  • Norway
  • Program Evaluation*