A multicentric descriptive study, 1295 children from 6 to 16 years of age without previous BLS or AED training. Subjects performed a simulation with an AED and a manikin with no training or feedback and were evaluated by means of a checklist.
A total of 258 participants (19.9%) were able to simulate an effective and safe defibrillation in less than 3 min and 52 (20.1% of this group) performed it successfully. A significant correlation between objective and age group was observed (G = 0.172) (p < 0.001). The average time to deliver a shock was 83.3 ± 26.4 s; that time decreased significantly with age [6 YO (108.3 ± 40.4) vs. 16 YO (64.7 ± 18.6) s] (p < 0.001).
Around 20% of schoolchildren without prior training are able to use an AED correctly in less than 3 min following the device's acoustic and visual instructions. However, only one-fifth of those who showed success managed to complete the procedure satisfactorily. These facts should be considered in order to provide a more accurate definition and effective implementation of BLS/AED teaching and training at schools.