A new community-based cardiopulmonary resuscitation training program for primary care: needs assessment, development, and pilot testing.

Abstract

Objective: The general population's interest in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) remains largely unknown. Fewer than one-third of individuals are familiar with CPR, and there are no comprehensive training programs available. This study aimed to examine CPR interest among patients visited in the primary care setting, design a new program, and assess the feasibility and efficacy of the training initiative.

Methods: This two-phase project aimed to (i) examine patients' knowledge and interests and (ii) design and evaluate a training program within the PC setting. Knowledge and interests were assessed using a survey. The training program design adhered to European guidelines. The pilot study assessed effectiveness through self-administered tests, instructor evaluation of the chain of survival, correct use of an automated external defibrillator (AED), and a manikin capable of measuring chest compression.

Results: A total of 243 patients participated. Among them, 26.16% had received prior CPR training, only 5% knew how to perform CPR maneuvers, and 84.8% were interested in learning. A 90-min training program was designed. After the training session (N = 50), all participants reported feeling capable of performing CPR techniques using the AED; 94% demonstrated proficiency in AED use, and 20% performed high-quality chest compressions (correct release, depth, and rate).

Conclusion: The general population had limited knowledge about CPR but was highly interested in acquiring CPR skills. The PC-based training program enabled bystanders to perform CPR and use AEDs, potentially improving survival rates in out-of-hospital cardiac arrests.