Dismal situation of cardio pulmonary resuscitation knowledge and skills among junior doctors in twin cities of Pakistan: CPR knowledge and skills

Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) among junior doctors in 13 tertiary care hospitals of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

Methods: A total of 317 junior doctors from 13 tertiary care hospitals in Rawalpindi and Islamabad in Pakistan were included in this cross-sectional study. Data were collected using a 37-item interviewer-administered structured questionnaire by the researchers. Informed consent and ethical approval were secured. Doctors’ knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding CPR were presented and compared across the demographic variables (age, gender, CPR training etc.). Data analysis was done using SPSS V 23 at an alpha level of 5%.

Results: Response rate for this study was 87.08%. Abbreviations of BLS, AED, and EMS were known by 94.3%, 36.0%, and 41.0% doctors respectively. No doctor had complete knowledge of CPR. Less than half of the participants knew the proper compression depths. Overall knowledge regarding CPR steps was poor. Out of 31 CPR knowledge, attitude, and practice related questions 21 correct answers were given by two doctors which was the highest score. The mean KAP score was 14.18 ± 0.15.

Conclusion: Awareness regarding CPR is essential for all doctors. Many authorities in developed countries are giving CPR training to the general population whereas in Pakistan, many of the doctors never had CPR training. The current study showed the clear majority wants hands-on CPR training. Hospital authorities may find this as an opportunity to improve the knowledege and skills of health workers.