Effectiveness of simplified chest compression-only CPR training program with or without preparatory self-learning video: A randomized controlled trial

Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of 1-h practical chest compression-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training with or without a preparatory self-learning video. Methods: Participants were randomly assigned to either a control group or a video group who received a self-learning video before attending the 1-h chest compression-only CPR training program. The primary outcome measure was the total number of chest compressions during a 2-min test period. Results: 214 participants were enrolled, 183 of whom completed this study. In a simulation test just before practical training began, 88 (92.6%) of the video group attempted chest compressions, while only 58 (64.4%) of the control group (p < 0.001) did so. The total number of chest compressions was significantly greater in the video group than in the control group (100.5 ± 61.5 versus 74.4 ± 55.5, p = 0.012). The proportion of those who attempted to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) was significantly greater in the video group (74.7% versus 28.7%, p < 0.001). After the 1-h practical training, the number of total chest compressions markedly increased regardless of the type of CPR training program and inter-group differences had almost disappeared (161.0 ± 31.8 in the video group and 159.0 ± 35.7 in the control group, p = 0.628). Conclusions: 1-h chest compression-only CPR training makes it possible for the general public to perform satisfactory chest compressions. Although a self-learning video encouraged people to perform CPR, their performance levels were not sufficient, confirming that practical training as well is essential. (UMIN000001046).