Introduction

Cardiac arrest is a critical health condition whose survival rate is associated with the speed with which cardiopulmonary resuscitation is performed.

Objective

To assess self-confidence, knowledge and skills of nursing interns about cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Materials and methods

A quantitative descriptive study was conducted between April and July 2018 with 80 nursing interns at a public university in northeastern Brazil. A knowledge test, a self-confidence scale for emergency intervention and an assessment of CPR practical skills using a mannequin were applied. Kruskal-Wallis and Pearson's Chi-square tests were also used.

Results

Nursing interns showed low self-confidence before an emergency. The theoretical questions about the location to check the victim’s pulse and position were correctly answered by most of the nursing interns. The main gaps in knowledge were related to the initiation of compressions (p = 0.245) and the rate of compressions/breaths (p = 0.034). In terms of skills, the gaps in knowledge were related to the position of the rescuer's hands and arms (p = 0.058), trunk movement (p = 0.062) and the right depth of compressions (p = 0.086).

Discussion

Regular training and continuing education are necessary for rapid, safe and effective care which will be provided by future nurses.

Conclusions

Gaps in knowledge and skills were evident, highlighting the importance of new methodologies to intensify and ensure the effectiveness of the teaching-learning process.

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