Text Box: EVALUATION OF THE NEED AND EFFICACY OF HOLDING PEDIATRIC ADVANCED LIFE SUPPORT COURSES IN CHINA
Wang Y, Li BR 
Shanghai Second Medical University Affiliated Shanghai Children¡¯s Medical Center. Shanghai, China

Objective: We designed this study to evaluate the need and effectiveness of Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) training course.
Methods: From February to April 2001, we held the two(2-day) PALS training courses according to the standard guidelines of American Heart Association. Fifty-five professionals(27 pediatricians and 28 nurses) were given a theory test before(pretest) and after(posttest) the course. Assessment of skills of basic and advanced pediatric life support were performed. Each participant filled in a survey questionnaire to evaluate the satisfaction with the PALS course.
Results: The average scores of pretest and posttest were 52.0% 86.0% (P<0.001), respectively. The pediatricians and nurses scored 56.6% 47.5% for pretest (P<0.01); 87.2% 84.9% for posttest (P>0.05), respectively. In the skill station, participants improved skills for airway maneuvers, endotracheal intubation, intraosseous access, cardioversion/defibrillation, overall resuscitation performance. 98% participants were satisfied with the teaching and skill station, 41% participants suggested that course time should be increased.
Conclusion: PALS training course is a systematic, useful method for early recognition and treatment of critically ill children. The trained professionals can improve knowledge, skills and outcome of pediatric resuscitation and advanced life support. The questionnaire was helpful in adjusting the duration of the course and evaluating the efficacy of the PALS training.
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