New method for autonomous learning of BLS psychomotor skills: Pillow mannequin: Randomized controlled study.

Background: Evidence supporting the benefits of autonomous learning of basic life support, such as rapid outcomes and cost-effectiveness, is increasing. Reports supporting the autonomous learning of cognitive skills in basic life support exist. However, there is currently no report supporting the autonomous learning of psychomotor skills in basic life support.

Aim: This study aimed to assess how using a research-developed pillow-made mannequin affects autonomous learning of psychomotor skills in basic life support training.

Design: Randomized controlled trial.

Setting: This study was conducted in a nursing school in Turkey.

Participants: Sixty-one (n = 61) third-year formal science undergraduate students.

Methods: At XXX University, 61 nursing students were divided into Intervention (n = 31) and Control Groups (n = 30). Students in both groups received basic life support training, including live demonstrations. Intervention Group students practiced with the mannequin for 15 days. Skill assessments were conducted by two independent evaluators using a real mannequin 15 days later and six months later. Researchers used a checklist to assess psychomotor skills.

Results: The sociodemographic characteristics of both student groups were similar. There was no significant difference in cognitive knowledge levels after the blended training (p > 0.05). However, at both post-intervention assessments, after 15 days and after 6 months, significant skill differences emerged in "placing the index finger on the ends of the sternum," "combining the thumbs in the middle," "defining the lower sternum as a massage point," "placing the base of the chest" "placing the weaker hand at the massage point," "placing the body perpendicular to the ribcage," and "performing 30 compressions." Cohen's kappa value was calculated as 0.932.

Conclusion: Use of the mannequin facilitates autonomous learning of psychomotor skills and promotes accurate application.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT05346003, 08/02/2022.