Effect of an Educational Intervention on CPR Knowledge and Skills in Schoolchildren

Effect of an Educational Intervention on CPR Knowledge and Skills in 7- and 8-Year-Old Schoolchildren: A Non-Randomized Controlled Trial

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a CPR intervention for children aged 7 and 8. Given the high prevalence of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA) and the proven benefits of early CPR training, the study seeks to determine whether a structured intervention can improve young children's knowledge and skills in basic life support.

What is the effect of a CPR training intervention on the knowledge and skills of 7- and 8-year-old schoolchildren?

Cardiac arrest is a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Research shows that survival rates increase significantly when CPR is performed promptly by a trained bystander. Countries with early CPR training programs in schools, such as Norway and Denmark, report better survival outcomes. However, in Latin America, CPR education in schools is still in its early stages. Evidence suggests that children can effectively learn and retain CPR knowledge, and they can serve as multipliers by passing their knowledge to family and peers.

Study Design:

This is a non-randomized, double-blind controlled trial with four phases:

Intervention Design - Developing an age-appropriate CPR training intervention based on educational and cognitive development theories.

Content Validation - Experts in child education and health professionals will assess the content and delivery methods.

Validation of Assessment Tools - Ensuring reliability in measuring children's CPR knowledge and skills.

Intervention Implementation and Evaluation - The intervention will be conducted in schools, with pre- and post-tests assessing knowledge and skills retention after 3 months.

Expected Outcomes:

Improved knowledge and skill levels in CPR among children who receive the intervention.

Validation of a structured educational approach for teaching CPR to young children.

Contribution to global evidence on CPR education and its potential impact in Bogotá schools.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Schoolchildren aged between 7 and 8 years.
• Students enrolled in an educational institution that has authorized their participation in the study.
• Not participating in any other intervention or educational program related to CPR during the study period.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Students whose parents, legal guardians, teachers, or the students themselves report any health condition that prevents them from participating in the study.
• Students who indicate having received prior training in CPR or related skills.
• Students whose parents, legal guardians, or teachers report any cognitive condition that limits their ability to understand and follow the instructions necessary to learn and practice CPR in simulated scenarios.