Second-tier Instruction of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation by CPR Anytime(R) Trainees

PURPOSE: CPR Anytime(R), a self-instructional video program, has gained popularity amongst CPR instructors for training non-healthcare providers. This instructional kit enables second-tier instruction. The purpose of this study is to determine the status of second-tier instruction CPR by CPR Anytime(R) trainees. METHODS: Questionnaires were sent to 606 CPR Anytime(R) trainees from 12 BLS training sites. The training period was from October 2006 to July 2007. Questionnaires included provider's basic information, post-course self exercise, amount of second-tier instruction, and multiplier status. RESULTS: The response rate of the questionnaire was 53.6%(325). The mean age was 20.4+/-10.3 years old. The professions of respondents were as follows: students (76.3%), office workers(13.2%), teachers(4.4%), and service providers(1.9%). The post-course self exercise rate was 49% with three fourths of those completing the exercises using both the DVD and MiniAnne(R). Second-tier instruction tools use rates(48%) were as follows: DVD and manikin(35%), manikin only(9%), verbal only(2%), and DVD only(1%). The total multiplier effect was 1.77(575/ 325) with the multiplier effect of teachers significantly higher than others. CONCLUSION: This study found that 48% of CPR Anytime(R) providers perform second-tier instruction to family and friends. Amongst them, the total multiplier effect was 1.77 (575/325).

A Lethal Case of Sodium Azide Ingestion

Sodium azide (NaN3) is a white to colorless, crystalline powder that is highly water soluble, tasteless, and odorless. It is used mainly as a preservative in aqueous laboratory reagents and biologic fluids and also as an automobile airbag gas generant. Although it has caused deaths for decades, the toxic properties and effects of sodium azide in humans remains unknown. A 31-year-old comatose female was transported to the emergency department with an empty bottle labeled sodium azide. She developed cardiac arrest 15 minutes after arrival and expired in spite of 30 minutes of resuscitative effort. Subsequently, resuscitation team members incidentally suffered from sodium azide's exposure and developed eye discomfort, skin rashes parasthesias, pruritus, sore throat, and headache.