Rationale and design of the Lowlands Saves Lives trial: a randomised trial to compare CPR quality and long-term attitude towards CPR performance between face-to-face and virtual reality training with the Lifesaver VR app

Abstract

Introduction: Layperson cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a key aspect in the chain of survival after cardiac arrest. New, low-cost, easily accessible training methods such as virtual reality (VR) training with a smartphone application may reach broader populations, but data on CPR performance are scarce.

Methods and analysis: The Lowlands Saves Lives trial is a prospective randomised open-blinded end-point evaluation study, comparing two 20 min CPR training protocols: standardised, certified instructor-led face-to-face training complying with current education guidelines (using Laerdal Little Anne manikins), and VR training, using the UK Resuscitation Council endorsed Lifesaver VR app. In the latter, chest compressions are practiced on a pillow.During VR training, participants learn to resuscitate by completing a filmed CPR scenario while wearing VR goggles and headphones. Eligible for inclusion are adult attendees of Lowlands Science, a specific section of the 3-day Lowlands music festival (50 000 attendees), dedicated exclusively to science. Following the training, all participants will perform a CPR test on a Laerdal Resusci Anne QCPR manikin. Primary outcome measures are depth and rate of chest compressions, measured using CPR manikins. The key secondary outcome is overall CPR performance, with real-time examination (blinded for study group) of all items of a European Resuscitation Council endorsed checklist, and evaluation of a sample of videotaped CPR tests by a blinded event committee.Given the unique setting of a festival, the primary additional analysis will address the impact of alcohol levels on CPR quality parameters and overall performance. Follow-up questionnaires will evaluate the attitude towards performing CPR. This unique study may provide important insights into innovative CPR training methods, factors that impact CPR performance and the impact on long-term attitude towards resuscitation.

Ethics and dissemination: This study received approval from the research ethics committee of the Radboudumc. All participants will provide written informed consent. The results of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at (inter)national conferences.

Trial registration number: ClinicalTrials.gov registry (NCT04013633).

Keywords: basic life support; cardiac arrest; cardiopulmonary resuscitation; education; virtual reality.