Effects of the use of theoretical versus theoretical-practical training on CPR.

BACKGROUND: Theoretical knowledge and skill to perform good quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) are essential for the survival of patients with sudden death. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether a theoretical course alone is sufficient to promote good quality CPR training and knowledge for health professionals in comparison to a theoretical-practical basic life support training. METHODS: Twenty volunteer nurses participated in the theoretical CPR and automated external defibrillation (AED) training by means of a theoretical class and video used in the Basic Life Support Training of the American Heart Association (BLS-AHA; group A). They were compared to other 26 health professionals who attended regular theoretical-practical BLS-AHA training (group B). After the training, the participants took theoretical and practical tests as recommended in BLS-AHA courses. The practical tests were recorded and were later scored by three experienced instructors. The theoretical test was a multiple choice test used in regular BLS-AHA courses. RESULTS: No difference was observed in the theoretical tests (p = ns). However, the practical tests were consistently worse in group A, as evaluated by the three examiners (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The use of CPR videos and theoretical training did not improve the individuals' psychomotor ability to perform good quality CPR; however, it may improve their cognitive ability (knowledge). Critical areas of intervention are the primary ABCD and the correct use of AED.