Training to deeper compression depth reduces shallow compressions after six months in a manikin model

Abstract

Introduction: Studies show that students, trained to perform compressions between 40 and 50mm deep, often do not achieve sufficient depth at retention testing. We hypothesized that training to achieve depths >50mm would decrease the proportion of students with depth <40mm after 6 months, compared to students trained to a depth interval of 40-50mm.

Methods: A basic life support (BLS) self-learning station was attended by 190 third year medicine students. They were first offered the possibility to refresh their skills, following the instructions of a 15min abbreviated Mini Anne™ video (Laerdal, Norway) using a full size torso and a face shield. This was followed by further training using Resusci Anne Skills Station™ software (Laerdal, Norway). Voice feedback was provided according to randomisation to a standard group (SG) 40-50mm and a deeper group (DG) >50mm. Quality of compressions was tested after 6 months.

Results: The SG and DG groups consisted of 90 (67% female) and 100 (58% female) participants respectively. At the end of training, all students reached the target depth without overlap between groups. After 6 months, the proportion of students achieving a depth <40mm was 26/89 (29%) in the SG vs. 12/89 (14%) in the DG (P=0.01). The proportion of students with a depth >50mm was 5/89 (6%) for the SG and 44/89 (49%) in the DG (P<0.001).

Conclusions: The educational strategy to train students to a deeper depth, reduced shallow compressions 6 months after training.