Study objective: To examine factors that motivate people to become and remain basic life support (BLS) and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) instructors.
Design: A questionnaire was mailed to 967 BLS and ACLS instructors.
Setting: The study was performed in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Type of participants: All BLS and ACLS instructors whose names were registered with the Santa Clara County Affiliate of the American Heart Association.
Results: Although there is room for improvement, 81% of the instructors were satisfied with their jobs. "Satisfaction in performing a valuable service" was the predominant reason they became instructors. "Lack of time" was the main factor causing people to stop teaching.
Conclusion: The majority of BLS and ACLS instructors surveyed were quite happy. The current system appears to be working in that the teachers themselves are satisfied. An accurate portrait of BLS and ACLS instructors is crucial for organizations such as the American Heart Association if they wish to attract and retain instructors.