Do radiologists want/need training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation? Results of an Internet questionnaire.
OBJECTIVE
Prompt and effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) decreases morbidity and mortality following cardiopulmonary arrest. Radiologists are frequently confronted with severely ill patients, who may deteriorate at any time. Furthermore, they have to be aware of life-threatening reactions towards contrast media. This study was designed to assess experience and self-estimation of German-speaking radiologists in CPR and cardiac defibrillation (CD).


METHODS
650 German-speaking radiologists were audited by a specially designed questionnaire, which was sent via e-mail. The answers were expected to be re-mailed within a 2-month period.


RESULTS
The response rate was 12.6%. 72.8% of the responders had performed at least 1 CPR (range 9.5 +/- 13.1) and 37% at least 1 CD. 67.9% had had opportunities to attend training courses, which had been utilized by 41.8% of them. The last training of the responders was more than 2 years ago in 69.2% and more than 5 years ago in 37%. Of all responders 75.6% expressed the need for further education.


CONCLUSIONS
The small response rate indicates the small importance of CPR in the subpopulation surveyed. The vast majority of the responders, however, showed interest in basic and advanced life support and advocated regular updates. It seems reasonable that radiological departments themselves should organize courses in order to cope with their specific situations.
Schellhammer
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Department of Radiology, St. Katharinen Hospital, Frechen, Germany. schellhammer@khs-frechen.de
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D016887:Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation / Q000193:education* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004554:Electric Countershock / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005858:Germany; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D020407:Internet / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011871:Radiology / Q000193:education* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors