A multiple linear regression analysis of factors affecting the simulated Basic Life Support (BLS) performance with Automated External Defibrillator (AED) in Flemish lifeguards. (April 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Iserbyt, Peter; Schouppe, Gilles; Charlier, Nathalie
• Is Part Of: Resuscitation. Volume 89(2015)
• Page Start: 70
• Page End: 74
• Publication Date: 2015-04
• Subjects: Education -- Lifeguard -- Training -- CPR; Resuscitation -- Periodicals; Resuscitation -- Periodicals; Réanimation -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 616.025
• DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2015.01.010
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0300-9572

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Research investigating lifeguards' performance of Basic Life Support (BLS) with Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is limited. Aim: Assessing simulated BLS/AED performance in Flemish lifeguards and identifying factors affecting this performance. Methods: Six hundred and sixteen (217 female and 399 male) certified Flemish lifeguards (aged 16–71 years) performed BLS with an AED on a Laerdal ResusciAnne manikin simulating an adult victim of drowning. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis was conducted with BLS/AED performance as outcome variable and demographic data as explanatory variables. Results: Mean BLS/AED performance for all lifeguards was 66.5%. Compression rate and depth adhered closely to ERC 2010 guidelines. Ventilation volume and flow rate exceeded the guidelines. A significant regression model, F (6, 415) = 25.61, p < .001, ES = .38, explained 27% of the variance in BLS performance (R2 = .27). Significant predictors were age (beta = −.31, p < .001), years of certification (beta = −.41, p < .001), time on duty per year (beta = −.25, p < .001), practising BLS skills (beta = .11, p = .011), and being a professional lifeguard (beta = −.13, p = .029). 71% of lifeguards reported not practising BLS/AED. Discussion: Being young, recently certified, few days of employment per year, practising BLS skills and not being a professional lifeguard are factors associated with higher BLS/AED performance. Conclusion: Measures should be taken to prevent BLS/AED performances from decaying with age and longer certification. Refresher courses could include a formal skills test and lifeguards should be encouraged to practise their BLS/AED skills.