A preliminary feasibility study of a short DVD-based distance-learning package for basic life support.
OBJECTIVE
To test the hypothesis that laypeople who learn CPR using an 8-min self-instructional DVD acquire a level of skill that is comparable to that achieved with conventional courses.


METHODS
Forty volunteers used a short DVD with replay facility, and a simple inflatable training manikin, for self-instruction in basic life support. A further 40 volunteers (control group) attended a conventional 1-h instructor-led course. Skill acquisition was measured for each group.


RESULTS
After training, the self-instructional group achieved remarkably similar results compared with the control group for all measured skill variables except compression depth, which was significantly greater for the control group.


CONCLUSIONS
Very short, DVD-based, self-instructional packages may be suitable for more widespread use, including distance-learning and other circumstances in which educational opportunities and resources are limited.
Jones
Ian
I
Pre-hospital Emergency Research Unit, Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust/School of Medicine Cardiff University, Finance Building, Lansdowne Site, Sanatorium Road, Cardiff CF11 8PL, United Kingdom.
Handley
Anthony J
AJ
Whitfield
Richard
R
Newcombe
Robert
R
Chamberlain
Douglas
D
D000328:Adult; D020375:Education, Distance / Q000379:methods*; D004521:Educational Measurement; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008020:Life Support Care / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008297:Male; D008348:Manikins; D008875:Middle Aged; D011361:Professional Competence; D015397:Program Evaluation; D014741:Video Recording / Q000295:instrumentation*