Do resuscitation schemes save lives?

Abstract

1986 saw the introduction of a training programme, called Save a life or Heartsaver aimed at teaching members of the public basic first aid. From American experience, it was claimed that this campaign could help save many lives by teaching people resuscitation and other life-saving skills. The extent to which these campaigns can and do achieve their objectives is examined, potential weaknesses in this training scheme identified, and suggestions made to bring the training received into line with international practice.

Effectiveness of the BBC's 999 training roadshows on cardiopulmonary resuscitation: video performance of cohort of unforewarned participants at home six months afterwards

“…The structure of the roadshows was similar to the Save A Life campaign, which has been criticised for its short training time (2.5 hours) and the fact that instructors come from many different organisations 20. Retention of cardiopulmonary resuscitation skills was greater among those who attended an eight hour rather than a four hour course 21.…”