Högskolan i Skövde

The purpose statement is which the most effective educational method is for cardiopulmonary resuscitation; instructor-led versus film-based and what happens in the gap between education and an event of cardiac arrest in society. The aim was to investigate knowledge of which educational method contributes to the intended skills, ability to act and willingness to start a life-saving action. The aim was also to increase understanding by identifying tension fields of experiences in the cardiopulmonary resuscitation practice.

The study is highlighted by a learning theory influenced by pragmatism and philosopher Dewey, as well as a holistic hermeneutical perspective through the philosopher Gadamer. A combined design with quantitative and qualitative method has been used. Data collection has been done through surveys, quality measurements on cardiopulmonary resuscitation and interviews. A critical hermeneutic according to Ricoeur has supported interpretation of data.

The quantitative result shows no significant difference in total points of theoretical knowledge, ability to act or willingness to start cardiopulmonary resuscitation between the education methods. A significant difference (p<0.05) has been demonstrated for practical knowledge, where the film-based education showed higher total score than the instructor-led education over time. The result of the qualitative interpretation has identified five overall tension fields in both experiencing and lacking experience, 1) knowledge of, skills in and understanding of, 2) learning, 3) ability to act, 4) responsibility and humanity, 5) and willingness to start a life-saving effort in cardiopulmonary resuscitation practice. The result contributes to increased knowledge of cardiovascular rescue practice, valuable for future education and further research.