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Observational Study
. 2021 Apr 20;21(1):195.
doi: 10.1186/s12872-021-02009-2.

Assessment of the knowledge level and experience of healthcare personnel concerning CPR and early defibrillation: an internal survey

G Spinelli  1 , E Brogi  2 , A Sidoti  1 , N Pagnucci  1 , F Forfori  1
Affiliations
Observational Study

Assessment of the knowledge level and experience of healthcare personnel concerning CPR and early defibrillation: an internal survey

G Spinelli et al. BMC Cardiovasc Disord. .

Abstract

Background: In-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) is a major public health problem with significant mortality. Rapid cardiopulmonary resuscitation and early defibrillation is extremely connected to patient outcome. In this study, we aimed to assess the effects of a basic life support and defibrillation course in improving knowledge in IHCA management.

Methods: We performed a prospective observational study recruiting healthcare personnel working at Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy. Study consisted in the administration of two questionnaires before and after BLS-D course. The course was structured as an informative meeting and it was held according to European Resuscitation Council guidelines.

Results: 78 participants completed pre- and post-course questionnaires. Only 31.9% of the participants had taken part in a BLS-D before our study. After the course, we found a significative increase in the percentage of participants that evaluated their skills adequate in IHCA management (17.9% vs 42.3%; p < 0.01) and in the correct use of defibrillator (38.8% vs 67.9% p < 0.001). However, 51.3% of respondents still consider their preparation not entirely appropriate after the course. Even more, we observed a significant increase in the number of corrected responses after the course, especially about sequence performed in case of absent vital sign, CPR maneuvers and use of defibrillator.

Conclusions: The training course resulted in significant increase in the level of knowledge about the general management of IHCA in hospital staff. Therefore, a simple intervention such as an informative meetings improved significantly the knowledge about IHCA and, consequently, can lead to a reduction of morbidity and mortality.

Keywords: Advanced cardiac life support; Cardiopulmonary resuscitation; Heart arrest; Professional education.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Flowchart of the participants included
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Subjective evaluation of preparation in cardiac arrest management: comparison between pre and post-course
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Subjective evaluation of preparation in using defibrillator: comparison between pre and post-course
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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