Saving lives. An innovative approach for teaching CPR

In the 1960s, the concept of saving lives through the use of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was a revolutionary idea. In the 1990s, CPR is a household word, and CPR classes are taught to both medical and nonmedical groups. The layperson is a critical link in the chain of survival for cardiac arrests (1). However, despite the number of CPR classes taught to the public, disturbing findings have been noted. Studies have revealed that bystanders trained in CPR often fail to recognize emergencies and typically delay the initiation of CPR when emergencies are present. A change in the approach to CPR instruction is needed. CPR instructors are encouraged to develop innovative teaching strategies that enhance learning and meet the goal of community CPR training.