Teaching basic life support to the digital generation: randomized trial comparing videoassistedversus practical simulation

Abstract

• Simulation is a teaching method used to facilitate learning of Basic life support and Defibrillation (BlsD) techniques. This study explored the potential of two ways of teaching BlsD techniques in order to understand which one could be the best between Low- Fidelity Simulation and Moderate-Fidelity Simulation.• A sample (n = 127) of nursing students was selected for this two group pre- post- test conveniently randomized design with 4-month follow up to compare two methods of simulation teaching.• Students were allocated to Low-Fidelity (LF) (n = 64) and Moderate-Fidelity (MF) (n = 63) simulation teaching. Early evaluation immediate post intervention demonstrated an increase of knowledge in each group (LF mean pre test score = 44, immediate post test score = 62.18, MF mean pre test score = 42, immediate post test mean score = 62.18). Post-test 2 (4 months later) showed that there are no significant differences between the two groups in terms of knowledge retention (LF mean score = 65.81, MF mean score = 61.45. p = 0.721).• Despite the limit of small sample size, the study showed that the two teaching methods are equally effective in acquisition and retention of information on BlsD techniques. However the low- fidelity method was more efficient and less resource intensive.