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Teachers'
Attitudes about CPR and AEDs
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The "chain of survival"
in cardiac arrest includes early detection, prompt activation of emergency
services, early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and early defibrillation.
A survey was distributed to teachers in an urban public school district
to assess their impressions of the effectiveness of CPR and of automated
external defibrillators (AEDs), CPR training, willingness to perform CPR
on students or co-workers, and support for AEDs in school and required
CPR training. Of the group (n=259), 77% returned surveys distributed by
principals during a staff meeting. The respondents taught in elementary
(32%), middle (37%), or high school (31%). Most believed a patient would
survive if CPR (83%) or CPR and AED use (92.6%) occurred until an ambulance
arrived.
Nearly all (84.5%) believed
at least one staff member should have CPR training. Only 44% believed
training should be required for teacher certification. Half (52%) had
ever taken a CPR class. Just 16% had training within the past two years.
Most had concerns about giving CPR to a coworker (76%) or a student (87%).
Those who had ever been trained were much more likely to attempt CPR than
those not trained (71% vs. 23%). Most (92%) were willing to take a free
CPR and AED course if offered. Over 70% thought the school should have
an AED and over 60% felt school AEDs should be bought with public funds.
Only 17% could call "911" directly from the classroom.
The authors concluded
that teachers have an unrealistically high impression of the effectiveness
of CPR and AEDs. Most are not likely to administer CPR at school. Better
access to "911" notification should be the first priority. (Compton
S et al. Am J Health Educ 2003;34(4):186-192) In a commentary, the director
of a children's hospital emergency services drew other conclusions. Higher
survival rates occur in communities with high rates of residents trained
in CPR and prompt ambulance response. The sample's (75% female, mean age
of 46 years) replies were consistent with middle-aged to older women's
views. CPR training stresses motor skills but should address concerns
about exposure to bodily fluids (with an option to perform only chest
compressions) and motivate people to take action. Since most (94%) believed
that each school should have a trained staff and an AED, perhaps interested
staff could organize CPR training for volunteer teachers. (Quan L. Am
J Health Educ 2003;34(4):193-196)
Comment: The survey
did not distinguish between public education or other public funding.
There was no indication of the availability or opinion that the school
nurse should be the trained
staff - another limitation of the survey questions. More schools will
be stocked with AEDs so school nurses can take a leadership role to plan
appropriate training and response plans in the event of need likely for
a staff or visitor. -J.O.
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