Attitudes and confidence towards cardiopulmonary resuscitation and use of the automated external defibrillator among family physicians in Hong Kong

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the attitudes and confidence towards cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and using the automated external defibrillator (AED) amongst family physicians in Hong Kong. Design: A questionnaire survey Subjects: Members of the Hong Kong College of Family Physicians. Main outcome measures: Self-reported attitudes, confidence, concerns and perceived educational needs towards CPR and AED. Results: 178 completed questionnaires were received (response rate 11.7%). The majority of respondents had positive attitudes towards CPR/AED. 79% thought that AED was an essential clinic equipment. 87% felt that clinic staff should be familiar with CPR, and 96% felt that CPR/AED skills should be kept up-to-date. The majority of respondents were also confident in performing CPR either within the clinic (88%) or in the street (79%), and in using an AED in resuscitation (79%). A significant proportion of respondents were concerned about risk of infection from victims during CPR (58%), risk of injury to victim or oneself (37%), and risk of being sued (25%). The majority of respondents also perceived the need for regular CPR/AED training (93%). Respondents working in the public sector were more confident to use AED, less concerned about injury and agreed more that AED was considered an essential clinic equipment and clinic staff should know CPR. Respondents with CPR certification were more confident to perform CPR, to use AED, and agreed more that clinic staff should know CPR. Conclusion: Most respondents recognised CPR and AED skills as important and felt confident to perform resuscitation. Those with exposure to training felt more confident in performing CPR and using an AED, irrespective of their qualifications and whether or not in possession of post-graduate qualifications. Most respondents expressed the need to receive regular CPR/AED training to update the skills. A significant proportion of respondents still had concerns about risks associating with CPR/AED, but the perceived risks could be reduced through education and training.