Outdated CPR on TV Could Delay Lifesaving Interventions

CPR on TV is often inaccurate—but watching characters jump to the rescue can still save real lives

Television characters who experience cardiac arrest outside a hospital are more likely to receive CPR than people in real life. But the CPR on these shows often depicts outdated practices and inaccuracies about who is most likely to experience cardiac arrest and where, according to newly published research from my team at the University of Pittsburgh.

Outdated CPR on TV could delay lifesaving interventions

Scripted television often shows outdated CPR techniques for lay people, potentially fueling misconceptions that could delay bystanders' lifesaving interventions in the crucial moments after a real-life cardiac arrest.

CPR on TV is often inaccurate – but watching characters jump to the rescue can still save real lives

You probably don't want to base your CPR technique on 'The Office.' The Office/NBC via YouTubeTelevision characters who experience cardiac arrest outside a hospital are more likely to receive CPR than people in real life. But the CPR on these shows often depicts outdated practices and inaccuracies about who is most likely to experience cardiac arrest and where, according to newly published research from my team at the University of Pittsburgh. H…

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