Researchers from IDIAPJGol in the Camp de Tarragona evaluate the effectiveness of online training on cardiopulmonary resuscitation with defibrillators

Training the population in the application of resuscitation techniques can double the survival of people who suffer a cardiac arrest.

A team of researchers from the TICS-AP research group of the Research Support Unit (RSU) Tarragona-Reus of the IDIAP is conducting a study to evaluate the effectiveness of online training on cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of automated external defibrillators among residents of the Priorat and Baix Camp regions. The effectiveness of this training will allow establishing a community network formed by citizens with knowledge of cardiopulmonary resuscitation in rural areas where emergency service arrival times may be longer.

The involvement of citizens can have a significant impact on the survival chances of people who have suffered a cardiorespiratory arrest. In this situation, time is vital. Immediate action increases the probability of survival and, consequently, reduces the number of sequelae of the episode. Several studies state that training the population in cardiopulmonary resuscitation can double the survival of people affected by a cardiac arrest.

Training in rural areas
This training is especially useful in rural areas as they are often far from a healthcare center and have difficulties in accessing emergency services quickly.

The study protocol designed by researchers from the TICS-AP research group and recently published in the journal BMJ Open, highlights that online training promotes empowerment, preparedness, and community confidence in managing emergencies. Additionally, it reinforces community resilience and increases the likelihood of carrying out a first intervention.

This study will have a significant impact on public health by creating a network of people trained in CPR and AED use and improving the overall well-being in rural communities.

The training platform
The successful completion of the online training course is formalized with the delivery of a certificate accrediting the training to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation and correctly use an automated external defibrillator.

Study reference
Taverna-Llauradó E, Martínez-Torres S, Granado-Font E, Pallejà-Millán M, Del Pozo A, Roca-Biosca A, Martín-Luján F, Rey-Reñones C. Online platform for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and automated external defibrillator training in a rural area: a community clinical trial protocol. BMJ Open. 2024 Feb 7;14(2):e079467. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-079467. PMID: 38326271; PMCID: PMC10859986.