Association of state-level CPR training initiatives with layperson CPR knowledge in the United States

Study aim: Recent work has demonstrated low rates of layperson CPR training across the US. In an attempt to increase rates, some states passed legislation that requires CPR training before high school graduation. We hypothesized laypeople in states with required training would exhibit a greater likelihood of being currently trained in CPR when compared with laypeople in states without required CPR training. Methods: We used a previously conducted nationwide cross-sectional random-digit dial survey of the US adult population (09/2015-11/2015). Survey weighted descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used to assess the primary association of likelihood of CPR training and required CPR training by graduation. Results: Of the 9022 participants, 677 healthcare workers were excluded. Among those living in states with required training, 17% of laypersons were currently trained, while 14% of laypersons in states without required training were currently trained (p<0.01). Amongst younger individuals (18-24), 29% were currently trained in states with required CPR training compared with 19% currently trained in states without required training (p<0.01). Those in required training states were 34% more likely to be currently trained than individuals in states without required training (OR: 1.34, 95% CI: 1.20-1.50, p <0.01). In a secondary analysis, younger laypersons in required training states were almost two times more likely to be currently trained (OR: 1.81, 95%CI: 1.18-2.78, p = 0.01). Conclusions: Individuals were more likely to be currently trained in CPR in states with mandatory CPR training for high school graduation, suggesting a need for additional research on this public policy.