On. Aug. 15, the American Heart Association (AHA) announced CPR training courses will require use of an instrumented directive feedback device, effective Jan. 39, 2019. Using the devices, students receive audiovisual evaluation and corrective instruction on chest compression rate, depth and proper hand placement.
Studies have show the technology can be used alongside or integrated with a manikin to help students improve skills and reduce instruction time.
This new requirement impacts the Association’s Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), ACLS for Experienced Providers and Heartsaver adult CPR training courses.
“The American Heart Association trains more than 22 million people in CPR annually through its course offerings. Requiring a feedback device further solidifies its global leadership position in resuscitation science and CPR education training,” said Mary Elizabeth Mancini, PhD, MSN, AHA volunteer and professor, senior associate dean for education innovation at the University of Texas at Arlington College of Nursing and Health Information. “Specific and targeted feedback is critical to students understanding and delivering high-quality CPR when faced with a cardiac emergency. Incorporating feedback devices into adult CPR courses improves the quality and consistency of CPR training, which increases the chance of a successful outcome when CPR is performed.”
More than 350,000 cardiac arrests happen each year outside of a hospital setting, with only 46 percent of suffers receiving CPR before professional help arrives. CPR can double or triple a victim’s chance of survival.
Nicholas joined TriMed in 2016 as the managing editor of the Chicago office. After receiving his master’s from Roosevelt University, he worked in various writing/editing roles for magazines ranging in topic from billiards to metallurgy. Currently on Chicago’s north side, Nicholas keeps busy by running, reading and talking to his two cats.