Evaluation of a Self-Instructional CPR Program for Parents With Children Enrolled in Community Swim Lessons

This project evaluated an evidence-based self-instructional program aimed at improving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) knowledge and confidence in parents with children in swim lessons.

A prospective, repeated-measures design evaluated the CPR Anytime Child program. Twenty-nine parents completed questionnaires before, immediately after, and 1 month after the program.

Knowledge and confidence scores improved significantly over time. Compared with a baseline knowledge mean score of 47.3%, mean score immediately after the program was 93.5% (t = -12.176, p < .01) and at 1 month was 80.9% (t = -8.459, p < .01). Confidence in determining CPR need increased from a baseline of 2.52 to 3.18 points immediately after the program (t = -2.88, p = .013) and 3.20 at 1 month (t = 4.759, p < .01). Confidence in performing CPR increased from a baseline of 2.14 to 3.18 immediately after the program (t = 4.759, p < .01) and 2.73 at 1 month (t = -2.88, p = .013).

The CPR Anytime Child program had a significant sustained effect on improving knowledge and confidence in parents of children in swim lessons. The simplicity of this program makes it replicable and sustainable in this setting.