Twelve-month retention of CPR skills with automatic correcting verbal feedback

To evaluate the retention of CPR skills 12 months after initial training, using a manikin equipped with a computer-based voice advisory feedback system.

Thirty-five volunteers had individual 20 min training sessions without an instructor on a manikin with computer-based voice advisory feedback. The feedback depended on the performance as measured by the manikin computer system versus set limits for ventilation and compression variables. Twelve of the volunteers received additional ten 3-min self-training sessions during the following month making a total of 50 min training. All ventilation and compression variables when the volunteers were tested before, immediately after and 6 months after training have previously been reported. The volunteers were now tested 12 months after the initial training session with activated feedback.

There were virtually no changes in CPR skills when tested with active feedback 12 months after initial training versus immediately or 6 months post-training. The only exception was a slightly lower number of compressions per minute at 12 months versus immediate post-training in the subgroup with 20 min of initial training, 47+/-4 versus 52+/-4, p = 0.008. There were no differences between the 20 and 50 min training subgroups at 12 months.

Computer-based voice advisory feedback can improve the performance of basic life support skills on a manikin with no deterioration in feedback supported performance after 12 months.