Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Survey of Standards among Junior Hospital Doctors

Abstract

The theoretical knowledge of cardiopulmonary resuscitation of 50 junior hospital doctors was examined, and an attempt made to assess their practical ability to manage a collapsed patient. Major defects were found in both the doctors' theoretical knowledge and their practical abilities. Only 8% were able to manage a cardiopulmonary arrest adequately. Suggestions are made as to how standards might be improved.