Automated External Defibrillators: Skill Maintenance Using Computer‐assisted Learning

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Abstract
Objective: To determine whether computer‐assisted learning (CAL) can maintain the automated external defibrillation (AED) skills of emergency medical technicians (EMTs). Methods: The authors conducted a 1‐year prospective comparison of an AED‐skill training software program, running on desktop computers, with traditional instructor‐led training. The subjects were experienced EMT‐Ds (EMT‐defibrillation), already trained in automated defibrillation (n= 105) employed as full‐time professional EMT‐D/firefighters. Two of the 3 groups (groups A and C) in the study were assigned to use the CAL program for 6 months. The third group (group B) remained on the normal, instructor‐led training regimen. Pre‐ and poststudy skill levels were measured using a skills performance test. Results: A secular trend of improved mean treatment scores was observed across all 3 groups [mean rise of 0.49 point (p = 0.01), repeated‐measures analysis of variance]. There were no differences between training groups in the increase in performance scores (p = 0.3). The 1‐time cost of supplying the CAL program to the 105 EMT‐Ds was $1,575, significantly less than the $3,240‐per‐year cost associated with instructor‐led training. Conclusions: The authors observed satisfactory AED skill maintenance for experienced EMT‐Ds using CAL to replace 2 of 4 quarterly instructor‐led skills reviews. CAL has cost and convenience advantages over instructor‐based skill maintenance and is an acceptable alternative.

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