Implementing Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Education

A survey of biology teachers on influencing factors and conditions

Abstract

A comprehensive implementation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) lessons turns out to be challenging in schools of western civilisation. The aim is to examine the status quo of experiences, beliefs and factors for a successful introduction of lay resuscitation lessons through biology teachers. A questionnaire was sent to secondary schools (n=1557 biology teachers) in the administrative district of Detmold (North Rhine-Westphalia) which included scales for the assessment of influencing variables (beliefs, organizational issues) regarding the “implementation of lay resuscitation”. Statistical analyses were performed by descriptive measures, and if compared to background variables U-tests were calculated. Considering a total of 145 (9.31%) questionnaires sent back, the results indicated a low level of experience with and awareness of the topic despite a recommendation of the German Conference of the Ministers of Education. Teachers stated a high level of acceptance for the necessity of the project. However, mediocre concerns were expressed about being overwhelmed by the new task. Support was most likely considered to be useful in offering professionalisation. Implications for the future implementation in secondary (biology) education are discussed in the article.