The feasibility of a novel method of bystander CPR training: A pilot study

Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death in the United States, with many occurring out of the hospital. Immediate response by bystanders, through the initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), leads to increased survival; however, many do not respond due to lack of training and education. This study sought to determine the efficacy of a training model developed to rapidly and effectively train large numbers of individuals on hands-only CPR. Thirty minute training sessions were developed to introduce hands-only CPR to faculty at a university, with questionnaires assessing confidence and knowledge of CPR. Faculty then went on to train their respective students. Ninety-six faculty and staff and 1615 students were trained within 3 weeks, demonstrating this model was effective in rapidly training large numbers of individuals in a short period of time while increasing CPR knowledge and confidence. This method may be effective in other community settings.