Assessment of BLS skills: Optimizing use of instructor and manikin measures

Lynch et al. Resuscitation. 2008;76(2):233-243

Importance of Conclusion

More objective feedback on compression performance during CPR courses is needed; instructor judgment alone is insufficient. Both human examiners and learners would benefit from measurement and feedback on compression performance during CPR courses.

Key Points

  • Learner competency of CPR skills during layperson CPR training depends entirely on judgments made by an instructor; research suggests these judgments are not precise or accurate.
  • Results of this study included inadequate compression depth rated as adequate 55% of the time, and incorrect hand placement rated adequate 49% of the time.
  • Study results show instructors do not always detect poor compression performance; hence some individuals with inadequate skills still receive instructor approval.
  • This study cites research that shows a large disparity between manikin and human measures of chest compressions and ventilations.

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