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First year pupils at a Cardiff comprehensive school were trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, 106 by the teacher only and 137 by the teacher assisted by older pupils (peer tutoring). Scores in a multiple choice theory test and in practical skill assessment showed no significant difference between instruction methods, but boys taught by the teacher assisted by older pupils expressed less willingness to resuscitate in an emergency than girls instructed by either method (P < 0.01). Girls had higher scores in the multiple choice paper (P < 0.025) and in the skills assessment (P < 0.01). Those pupils who reported some prior knowledge of resuscitation techniques performed better during skill assessment than novice trainees (P < 0.025).

Objective To collect information on health determinants directly from prisoners, complementary to a needs assessment. Design Self-completion multiple-choice questionnaire to a sample based on alternate cells. " Setting Her Majesty's Prison (HMP) Cardiff. Method Three hundred men received questionnaires with an offer of confidential help, which was accepted by two. Questions included qualifications, previous occupation, drug, alcohol and medical history, smoking, perceived threats, worries, diet, exercise, drugs in prison, access to services, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HAD) scale. Results Of 133 (44 per cent) who responded, more than half had left school prematurely. Thirty-three (25 per cent) drank 90 alcohol units or more weekly before prison and 91 (68 per cent) used illegal drugs, with 44 (33 per cent) using in prison. Of the 112 (84 per cent) who smoked, 89 (79 per cent) wished to quit. Ninety-one (68 per cent) never took vigorous exercise, and 83 (62 per cent) ate less than three portions of fruit and/or vegetables daily. Only 41 (35 per cent) were within the normal HAD range for both anxiety and depression. Conclusion This study highlights concurrent high levels of adverse health determinants in prisoners. Targeting these determinants should improve health and decrease the chance of returning to criminality on release.

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Purpose -In response to rising prevalence of sexually transmitted infection (STI) among teenagers, this study was designed to examine teenage perceptions of sex education, access to services, and attitudes relevant to STI. Design/methodology/approach -A focus group study was conducted in three schools to discuss the sexual health needs of teenagers. Four single sex groups of 14-15 year olds (two male and two female) comprising six to nine participants met for two one-hour sessions. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed by two researchers. Findings -Sex education was reported to vary considerably in quality and content both between and within schools. Participants felt that this was due to some teachers being embarrassed, resulting in didactic delivery and lack of discussion. Most participants had received very little information about STI, including how it could be avoided or what to do if infection was suspected. Many felt that it would be useful to have an organised visit to a sexual health/contraceptive clinic as part of the curriculum and that it would also be helpful if clinic staff contributed to their sex education. Research limitations/implications -Teachers selected participants based on their maturity and willingness to take part, which may have resulted in failure to include those in greatest need of sexual health services. Practical implications -Teenagers need more comprehensive sex education at an earlier age, delivered by individuals who are expert in the subject and comfortable in its delivery. Information alone is not enough but should be linked to accessible user-friendly services for contraception and general sexual health. Originality/value -This paper provides information on teenage sexual health needs in general and to the field of STI in particular.