CPR by foot. An alternative in special circumstances? A randomized simulation study.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the differences in the quality and self-perception of CPR performed with foot technique compared to the standard technique with the hands in nursing students.

METHODS

65 university nursing students participated in a randomized simulation crossover design study. The participants randomly performed two CPR tests: CPR by foot and CPR by hands techniques. The compression-only protocol with a 2-min test was used with the Resusci Anne QCPR® manikin and Wireless Skill Reporter® software, both from Laerdal.

RESULTS

Participants had lower quality when doing CPR by foot (72%) than when doing standard CPR (91%) (p = 0.006). 95% of the participants indicated standard CPR as the technique of choice, while 92% indicated that they would use CPR by foot if it was not possible to perform standard technique.

CONCLUSIONS

CPR quality was lower when performing foot technique, although with positive results. It would be advisable for people with acquired CPR skills to know that they can do foot compressions in situations where they cannot use their hands.