CPR quality among paramedics and ambulance officers: a cross-sectional simulation study

Introduction High quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) improves survival from cardiac arrest, yet CPR quality is often suboptimal, even among trained rescuers. St John Western Australia sought to gather anonymous baseline data on CPR performance by paramedics and ambulance officers in a simulation setting. Methods In a cross-sectional study, participants performed 2 minutes of CPR on a manikin. CPR quality was recorded and compared to recommended standards. Comparisons were also made between women and men. Results The final cohort comprised 1320 participants; 56% paramedics, 20% transport officers and 18% volunteer emergency medical technicians and emergency medical assistants. More than half achieved an overall score of 90% or greater. The median compression score was 96% (IQR 83–99%) while the median ventilation score was 94% (76–99%). Participants achieved the recommended chest compression fraction of ≥60% in 98% of cases. More than half of participants had 99% or more of their compressions reach a depth of ≥50 mm. Two-thirds (68%) recorded a mean compression rate in the range 100–120 compressions per minute. Although there were significant differences in the percentage of compressions deep enough (p<0.01) and the 2-minute mean compression depth (p<0.01) between men and women, the effect size was small. However, men were less likely than women to fully release pressure on the chest after compressions (p<0.01). Conclusion This study provides useful baseline data about CPR quality in a manikin model. Participants achieved relatively high scores for most CPR quality metrics and complied with CPR guidelines in the majority of cases.