Evaluation of an interactive multi-media (IMM) infant cpr training program

Objective: This presentation reviews the findings of a 3-condition randomized trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a program designed to teach infant CPR and life-saving skills to parents of children aged newborn-12 months old. Given that many parents lack the knowledge, skills, and self-efficacy to respond effectively to emergencies and that most situations requiring emergency response occur within the home, parents typically carry the burden of being first responders in emergent events. Specific objectives of this project were to determine the efficacy of the program in (a) increasing knowledge of life-saving skills; (b) improving self-efficacy in regard to using these skills; and (c) generating high levels of user satisfaction with the program.

Methods: The evaluation consisted of a randomized trial of 91 participants, comparing the three treatments: the IMM program, in-person CPR training, and written materials. Subjects completed a pretest and posttest CPR and choking relief skills demonstration tests and a paper-and-pencil survey. Key outcome measures were behavioral assessment to adequately perform CPR and choking relief skills and increased knowledge, motivation and self-efficacy regarding the use of those skills.

Results: The IMM program was found to be more effective than the in-person CPR training program, reaching univariate significance in the area of motivation to use CPR and life saving skills. It was also significantly more effective than the text-based program in five out of six univariate ANCOVAS. Further findings and implications for future interventions will also be discussed.