Knowledge and Skill after Brief ACLS Training
Polpun Boonmak MD*, Suhattaya Boonmak MD*, Somyong Srichaipanha BSc*, Sujettana Poomsawat BSc*
Affiliation : * Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University
Objectives : To determine the knowledge level and skill base in nurse anesthetists before and after brief ACLS
training, and again three months later.
Method : Thirty nurse anesthetists were tested for knowledge and skill before ACLS training comprising1-hr
lecture and handout, and 1-hr simulation training. Concepts included ABCD, primary and secondary survey,
management, medications, and algorithms for common problems. Skill practice comprised airway manage-
ment, chest compression and practice with equipment. After the training, the nurse anesthetists were immedi-
ately tested and again three months later.
Results : Age of participants averaged 39.33 + 3.14 years and working experience 10.04 + 3.23 years. The
knowledge and skill scores pre- vs post-training vs three-months-later was 50.32 + 15.24 vs 75.40 + 10.29 (p
< 0.001) vs 60.48 + 11.80 (p < 0.001) and 65.00 + 16.07 vs 79.67 + 10.80 (p < 0.001) vs 75.67 + 14.53 (p
< 0.001), respectively. The pre-training vs three-months-post-training skill scores was not statistically differ-
ent (p = 0.255).
Conclusion : After the brief ACLS training knowledge and skills were significantly improved, but knowledge
was not retained at the post-training test levels until the 3-month check, albeit skills had persisted. More
frequent ACLS education is necessary.
Keywords : Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, Nurse anesthetist, Knowledge, Skill, ACLS training
