Objective: To determine the optimal age ranges for implementing basic life support and chest compression course in Thai adolescents.

Material and Method: This was a cross sectional study in a secondary school in Khon Kaen, Thailand. Participants were divided into three age groups (13 to 14, 15 to 16, and 17 to 18-year-old groups). Every age group attended basic life support lecture and chest compression practice. Performance of each student was evaluated by practical examinations with the manikins and multiple-choice questions. Data were analyzed in descriptive and multiple logistic regression models by STATA program version 10.

Results: Two hundred seventy five students were enrolled. There were 118 males (43%). There were 99, 96, and 80 participants in age group 13 to 14, 15 to 16, and 17 to 18-year-old, respectively. Mean score differences between pre- and post-test significantly increased in all age groups. More than 50% of trainees achieved quality chest compression after training by experienced healthcare providers in all age groups (52.2% in 13 to 14 years, 52.5% in 15 to 16 years, and 65.0% in 17 to 18 years). Men had significant higher rates of quality chest compression compared to women after adjusted for age and body mass index.

Conclusion: Thai adolescents in age groups of 13 to 14, 15 to 16, and 17 to 18-year-old can perform quality chest compression in similar success rates after theory lecture and hand-on training. Basic life support and chest compression course can be initiated at the age of thirteen.

Keywords: Cardiac life support, Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, High school students, Curriculum