The current evidence of 'peer-led' cardiopulmonary resuscitation training: a scoping review

To explore and map existing evidence relating to peer-led cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training across any population or setting.

A scoping review was conducted using Joanna Briggs Institute methodology with reporting aligned to PRISMA-ScR. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library were searched for studies published to August 2025, supplemented by citation searching. Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full texts, with disagreements resolved by a third reviewer. Data were extracted using a standardised form and summarised narratively.

Out of 511 unique search results, 37 studies were included. Most were conducted in schools or health professional education settings, with few focusing on the wider adult community population. Four peer-training models (horizontal, near-peer, cascade, and self-regulated) were identified. Across diverse study designs and outcome measures, peer-led training frequently achieved similar educational outcomes to professional instructor-led training. Evidence on community-level implementation and patient-centred outcomes was limited.

Peer-led CPR training was supported by a largely heterogeneous evidence base demonstrating similar educational outcomes to traditional instruction. Research was concentrated in educational settings, with limited evaluation of community-wide implementation. Further rigorous, standardised studies are needed to clarify effectiveness, sustainability, and the role of peer-led training in expanding CPR training capacity in the broader community.