CPR: Train the trainer: Simulation based learning and knowledge transfer to small animal practices
Objectives:
Emergencies in veterinary practice are unpredictable, and every second counts when a patient experiences cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA). Effective Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) can be the difference between life and death, yet many veterinary teams feel underprepared to act confidently in these critical moments. This regional train the trainer strategy and knowledge transfer to practice teams aimed at improving team preparedness for CPA events.
Method
A one-day hands-on session, focused on equipping veterinary professionals from 30 small animal practices in East Anglia, with practical, evidence-based CPR skills. Participants explored the latest RECOVER 2024 guidelines, learning how to recognise CPA, perform high-quality chest compressions and ventilations (Basic life support) on dummies, and utilise emergency drugs and equipment effectively (Advanced life support). Beyond technical skills, the session emphasised teamwork, communication, and the importance of structured post-CPR debriefs to continuously improve outcomes. Practical aspects such as the essential components of a ‘crash box’, conduct of a simulation-based training session and the making of a DIY CPR simulator were also discussed. These participants became ‘trainers’ in their respective practices and delivered in-house simulation-based training to the practice teams within 3 months of the regional training. A follow up survey was conducted to assess the impact of this training model, collecting responses from the trainers and team members. Future in-house refresher sessions every 3-6 months are recommended to be conducted by practice trainers.
Results
The follow up survey revealed that:
- After the training, trainers and team members felt significantly more prepared in performing CPR, with average confidence rating increasing from 5.2 to 8 out of 10.
- Practical improvements such as easily accessible CPR guidelines, regularly checked crash box contents, sign posted equipment were made in all the participating practices.
- 75% of participants expressed a need for in-house refresher training at least every 6 months.
- Team availability and scheduling were the biggest challenges identified for in-house simulations.
Impact/Clinical Significance
Multi-site engagement via simulation-based CPR training improves team preparedness when encountering CPA events.
Funding/Conflicts of Interest: None
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