Visual attention during pediatric resuscitation with feedback devices: a randomized simulation study

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of feedback devices on visual attention and the quality of pediatric resuscitation.

This was a randomized cross-over simulation study at the Medical University of Vienna. Participants were students and neonatal providers performing four resuscitation scenarios with the support of feedback devices randomized. The primary outcome was the quality of resuscitation. Secondary outcomes were total dwell time (=total duration of visit time) on areas of interest and the workload of participants.

Forty participants were analyzed. Overall, chest compression (P < 0.001) and ventilation quality were significantly better (P = 0.002) when using a feedback device. Dwell time on the feedback device was 40.1% in the ventilation feedback condition and 48.7% in the chest compression feedback condition. In both conditions, participants significantly reduced attention from the infant's chest and mask (72.9 vs. 32.6% and 21.9 vs. 12.7%). Participants' subjective workload increased by 3.5% (P = 0.018) and 8% (P < 0.001) when provided with feedback during a 3-min chest compression and ventilation scenario, respectively.

The quality of pediatric resuscitation significantly improved when using real-time feedback. However, attention shifted from the manikin and other equipment to the feedback device and subjective workload increased, respectively.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation with feedback devices results in a higher quality of resuscitation and has the potential to lead to a better outcome for patients. Feedback devices consume attention from resuscitation providers. Feedback devices were associated with a shift of visual attention to the feedback devices and an increased workload of participants. Increased workload for providers and benefits for resuscitation quality need to be balanced for the best effect.