Using real-time device-based visual feedback in CPR recertification programs: A prospective randomised controlled...

Receiving regular training to maintain CPR skills is critical for in-service health-care professionals, especially because motor skills diminish over time.

To compare the effects of real-time device-based visual feedback and conventional instructor-based feedback on the chest compression skills and self-efficacy of nurses receiving a CPR recertification program.

A prospective randomised controlled study with repeated measurements was conducted according to the CONSORT 2010 guidelines.

A total of 109 nurses were recruited, and 98 nurses were eligible for random allocation. The control group (CG, n = 49) was advised by instructors for skill correction, and the experimental group (EG, n = 49) adjusted their skills according to on-screen real-time feedback data. The study outcomes were CPR performance metrics and self-efficacy that were assessed immediately after the training session (T1) and retested after 12 weeks (T2).

In the EG, the percentage of the appropriate rate, depth, and chest recoil at T1 significantly improved by 24.47 % (P < .001), 19.63 % (P < .001), and 11.52 % (P = .001), respectively. The EG exhibited significantly higher chest compression total scores at T1, and the difference remained significant at T2 (P < 0.001). Moreover, the self-efficacy in the EG significantly improved at T1 (2.76; P < .001) and T2 (2.58; P < .001).

Compared with instructor-based feedback, real-time device-based visual feedback improved chest compression quality and CPR self-efficacy.