How best to train kids in basic life support: a literature review.

Background: Bystander intervention is known to be the most important factor in the survival chain for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. However, bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) rates remain low-mainly due to a lack of training. Implementing basic life support (BLS) training in schools is a key aspect of increasing bystander intervention. We reviewed the literature on BLS training methods for schoolchildren and sought to identify the methodological elements that appeared to be the most effective in terms of the acquisition and retention of knowledge, practical skills, and attitudinal skills.

Methods: We searched the MEDLINE database (via PubMed) for relevant articles published between from January 2015 to January 2022. Articles on BLS training in children were selected if the primary objective was determine the effectiveness of the training method(s) used.

Results: Of the 1,098 publications identified, 28 were selected and reviewed. Half of the studies had a randomized, controlled design, the study sample size ranged from 57 to 1,917. Hands-on practice was included in 26 of the 28 studies, and the main training session lasted for 75 to 120 min. Hands-on practice gave better results than no practice. Learning tools promoted acquisition, and refresher training sessions appeared to be of value.

Conclusions: The results of our literature review showed that the conventional training pattern used with adults (i.e. theory, demonstration, and practice) is applicable to children if all the components are adapted for this population. Further studies of the development and evaluation of BLS training for young children are required.