Impact of a Real-Time Feedback Device on the Quality of Chest Compressions Performed by Laypersons: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Background/Objectives: This prospective, randomised controlled trial aimed to evaluate whether using a real-time feedback device during basic life support (BLS) training for laypersons improves chest compression quality immediately after training and at the four-month follow-up. Methods: Participants were randomly assigned to a control group (standard BLS training) or an intervention group (BLS training with a real-time feedback device). All participants completed a standardised 2-h BLS course, followed by a 4-min practical assessment immediately after training and at the four-month follow-up. The primary outcomes were chest compression rate and depth, while the secondary outcomes were correct hand position, full chest recoil and flow fraction. These compression parameters were compared within and between groups at both time points. Results: Data from 101 participants were analysed. Both groups showed significantly decreased mean and adequate compression rates over time, but only the intervention group demonstrated significantly better performance at follow-up. The mean compression depth was approximately 5 cm in both groups; however, the proportion of adequate compression depth was low and did not differ significantly within or between groups. Correct hand position was consistently higher in the intervention group across both assessments. Full chest recoil improved in both groups, whereas flow fraction increased only in the control group. Conclusions: Incorporating real-time feedback devices into layperson BLS training leads to superior performance in selected chest compression parameters, particularly compression rate and hand position. Therefore, real-time feedback devices can be a valuable adjunct to standard BLS training to enhance skill retention over time.