Evaluation of training kids in cardiopulmonary resuscitation using non-technological resources such as stories and animated cartoons

Abstract

Background. The aim of this study is to compare the results obtained in schoolchildren trained in CPR by parents in the family environment and by teachers in the educational environment. Methods. Randomized study of CPR learning in Primary School children (1st and 2nd year) of schools in the Region of Murcia. Parents (family group, FG) and teachers (teacher group, TG) have participated as trainers through a didactic material adapted for children (one story and one cartoon video) from the educational series Jacinto y sus Amigos©. Eight teorethical knowledge and five practical skills were evaluated. Results. 160 schoolchildren were selected and 116 completed the study; the FG presented 51.3% losses. The children trained by the TG obtained significantly higher median scores both in theoretical knowledge (6.7; IQR=1.8 vs 4.7; IQR=3.1; p<0.001) and in all practical skills except for recognizing an emergency situation. In the FG, teaching CPR with one story and one cartoon video achieved significantly better scores in five theorethical knowledge and four skills than with only the story. Conclusions. The implementation of non-technological educational resources, such as stories and animated cartoons for teaching CPR to primary school students, increases knowledge and skills. Schoolchildren trained in the educational environment have acquired more knowledge and skills than those trained by parents. Within the family environment, CPR teaching was more effective through one story and one cartoon video than when only the story was used.