{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Effect of a low-cost instruction card for automated external defibrillator operation in lay rescuers: a randomized simulation study.
{Author}: Zhou Q;Dong X;Zhang W;Wu R;Chen K;Zhang H;Zheng Z;Zhang L;
{Journal}: World J Emerg Med
{Volume}: 14
{Issue}: 4
{Year}: 2023
{Factor}: 2.621
{DOI}: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2023.070
{Abstract}: <B>BACKGROUND: </B>To evaluate whether a simplified self-instruction card can help potential rescue providers use automated external defibrillators (AEDs) more accurately and quickly.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>From June 1, 2018, to November 30, 2019, a prospective longitudinal randomized controlled simulation study was conducted among 165 laypeople (18-65 years old) without prior AED training. A self-instruction card was designed to illuminate key AED operation procedures. Subjects were randomly divided into the card (n=83) and control (n=82) groups with age stratification. They were then individually evaluated in the same simulated scenario to use AED with (card group) or without the self-instruction card (control group) at baseline, post-training, and at the 3-month follow-up.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>At baseline, the card group reached a significantly higher proportion of successful defibrillation (31.1% vs. 15.9%, P=0.03), fully baring the chest (88.9% vs. 63.4%, P<0.001), correct electrode placement (32.5% vs. 17.1%, P=0.03), and resuming cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) (72.3% vs. 9.8%, P<0.001). At post-training and follow-up, there were no significant differences in key behaviors, except for resuming CPR. Time to shock and time to resume CPR were shorter in the card group, while time to power-on AED was not different in each phase of tests. In the 55-65 years group, the card group achieved more skill improvements over the control group compared to the other age groups.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>The self-instruction card could serve as a direction for first-time AED users and as a reminder for trained subjects. This could be a practical, cost-effective way to improve the AED skills of potential rescue providers among different age groups, including seniors.