A Study Assessing the Knowledge and Attitude of First Responders about Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study was performed to improve cardiopulmonary resuscitation(CPR) training strategies for occupational groups, through the analysis of first responders' characteristics, knowledge and attitudes concerning CPR. METHODS: The occupational groups expected to have some training on rescue and emergency care in Korea were regarded as the first responders. In particular, this study focused on nurse-teachers, traffic policemen, and industrial safety supervisors, taxi drivers and restaurant workers as potential first responders, clerical workers comprised the control group. The subjects were given a questionnaire to answer over the internet. RESULTS: First responders' knowledge on CPR was significantly higher than that of the control group. First responders' attitude on CPR was more affirmative compared with the control group. In first responder group, nurse-teachers, traffic policemen and industrial safety supervisors had a higher fund of knowledge and more positive attitudes when compared to taxi drivers and restaurant workers. CONCLUSION: More training for first responders in CPR and emergency care is required given the likelihood of medical emergencies arising while on duty. Taxi drivers and restaurant workers' knowledge on CPR were found to be inadequate based on our survey questionnaire. Thus, it is necessary to strengthen CPR training for these individuals and groups.