Community Benefits from Improved CPR Training

Professional Development Coordinator Mary O’Connor, RN-BC, demonstrates how to use the new training manikin for CPR recertification, required for all clinical employees at Murphy Medical Center.

HeartCode BLS, the new American Heart Association CPR training instituted at Murphy Medical Center, has a direct effect on improved patient outcomes from cardiac arrest by standardizing CPR training and maintaining the highest level of competency for those using it. The training utilizes computer learning in modules and simulation technology in its Voice Advisory Manikin (VAM) system.  The system also saves time and cost for the hospital because the certification process takes less time than traditional classroom-based learning.
HeartCode BLS training has two parts: learning scenarios on a computer and simulated scenarios with a manikin. The manikin has electronic sensors in its chest and mouth area which detect and record the trainees’ motions — compression strength and rhythm in the chest area, and forced breaths of air into the lungs, the two actions of CPR. The manikin automatically offers feedback when the action sequence is performed correctly, and suggestions for improvement when done inadequately.
“Our staff is excited about the program,” states Mary O’Connor, RN-BC, Professional Development Coordinator at Murphy Medical Center. “The computer lets staff know exactly how they are doing through the whole procedure so their CPR skills are just right. It is also true that HeartCode will save Murphy Medical Center money by cutting staff training time in half, but the real goal is to save patient lives and have better patient outcomes.”