Use of an automated device for external chest compressions by first-aid workers unfamiliar with the device: a step toward public access?

Objective: The objective was to establish the feasibility of using an automated external chest compression (ECC) device among first-aid workers unfamiliar with the device.

Methods: Eighty first-aid workers unfamiliar with the Autopulse ECC device were randomized into three groups. Group 1 was given two explanatory illustrations on device use. Group 2 was given four explanatory illustrations. Group 3 was shown a 5-minute video on the placement and use of the device and allowed to handle the device for 5 minutes. The time taken to place and start the device on a mannequin was recorded.

Results: There was no significant difference among the three groups with regard to age, sex ratio, experience, and time elapsed since their last training session. No mistakes in device placement were made by any of the groups. All 80 participants started ECC in less than 160 seconds. There was no significant difference between Groups 1 and 2 in time taken to place or start the device (medians and 25-75 percentiles = 72 [54-112] vs. 86 [46-130] seconds and 154 [103-183] vs. 156 [120-197] seconds, respectively). However, Group 3 first-aid workers obtained significantly better results (19 [16-26] seconds to place and 48 [40-65] seconds to start; p<0.0001).

Conclusions: An automated ECC device can be rapidly placed and used by first-aid workers unfamiliar with the device. In the light of these results, use of the device by the general public can be envisaged.