Targeted mass CPR training for families of cardiac patients - Experience in Taipei city

Targeted mass cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training has been suggested in previous studies, and there was no information about targeted mass CPR training in Taiwan. We designed this study to determine whether targeted mass CPR training course in Taipei City could attract families of cardiac patients to learn CPR technique. We used a targeted strategy and aggressive methods such as mailing and telephoning to invite citizens of Taipei city to join our mass CPR training course. The participants of this activity were divided into two groups according to whether they have members in their families with cardiac disease or not. Questionnaires were answered by these participants after they had finished the CPR training course. Chi- square method was used to compare the variables of the two groups. The targeted strategy significantly attracted families of cardiac patients (60.5%) to join this activity compared to previous articles in western countries. After acquiring CPR skill, most participants of both groups have confidence and willingness to perform real CPR for their families (92.1% VS 92.9%; NS), relatives (89.0% VS 89.1%; NS), friends (87.8% VS 88.1%; NS), or even strangers (75.3% VS 74.9%; NS). Our results suggested that targeted mass CPR training program could attract families of cardiac patients in Taipei City to learn CPR setting an example for future CPR training programs in Taiwan.