Resuscitation skills of first year postgraduate doctors

The resuscitation skills of twenty seven doctors in their preregistration year were examined using a series of mock clinical scenarios and theoretical testing. All failed to reach basic life support standards of the American Heart Association and major deficiencies were revealed in the provision of ventilatory support, pharmacological therapy and the use of resuscitation equipment. Specific educational deficiencies that were apparent included: (1) early initial training without subsequent revision or testing; (2) the inadequate gaining of practical skills and equipment familiarity during the trainee intern and first year house officer years; and (3) an ill defined curriculum of emergency care that was fragmented between specialties and between lay and medical teachers.