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

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

Objectives: 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.

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

Methods: 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).

Results: 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).

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