BackgroundDiseases of the circulatory system are the most common cause of death in
Brazil. Because the general population is often the first to identify
problems related to the circulatory system, it is important that they are
trained. However, training is challenging owing to the number of persons to
be trained and the maintenance of training. ObjectivesTo assess the delivery of a medical-student led cardiopulmonary resuscitation
(CPR) training program and to assess prior knowledge of CPR as well as
immediate and delayed retention of CPR training among middle school
students. MethodsTwo public and two private schools were selected. CPR training consisted of a
video class followed by practice on manikins that was supervised by medical
students. Multiple choice questionnaires were provided before, immediately
after, and at 6 months after CPR training. The questions were related to
general knowledge, the sequence of procedures, and the method to administer
each component (ventilation, chest compression, and automated external
defibrillation). The instructors met in a focus group after the sessions to
identify the potential problems faced. ResultsIn total, 147 students completed the 6-month follow-up. The public school
students had a lower prior knowledge, but this difference disappeared
immediately after training. After the 6-month follow-up period, these public
school students demonstrated lower retention. The main problem faced was
teaching mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. ConclusionsThe method used by medical students to teach middle school students was based
on the watch-and-practice technique. This method was effective in achieving
both immediate and late retention of acquired knowledge. The greater
retention of knowledge among private school students may reflect cultural
factors. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2013;101(4):328-335)