Innovative CPR training is here

The Lindsay Foundation has pledged to donate $322,724 to fund equipment for Auckland City Hospital clinicians to receive life-like CPR simulation training, so they can save more lives in critical emergencies.

Resuscitation Quality Improvement (RQI) is a ground-breaking new method for resuscitation (CPR) training, which has been reported overseas to improve in-hospital cardiac arrest survival rates by 21% .

The purchase of the RQI machine has only been made possible through exclusive funding by the Lindsay Foundation, and it will be first machine in New Zealand. The funds have been pledged to the official charity for Auckland City Hospital’s adult health services, the Auckland Hospital Foundation, which is currently fundraising to develop world-class simulation in Auckland.

Lindsay Foundation CEO Andrew Higgott says the Lindsay Foundation was established to support Kiwis and organisations who aspire to make a positive difference in New Zealand. “The Auckland Hospital Foundation is doing something remarkable with the RQI initiative because this machine will help save lives.

“It’s an incredible piece of simulation equipment that will enable health professionals to practice CPR skills and hone their techniques on a regular basis, which they can then take into real life situations. The Lindsay Foundation is proud to bring that sort of technology and support to health professionals in New Zealand.

Research shows that CPR skills deteriorate from lack of use, as does the effectiveness of the resuscitation . The new RQI machine will improve the quality and frequency of training for 3,000 clinicians and nurses across Auckland City Hospital, ensuring they retain high-quality CPR skills.

Auckland City Hospital Adult Emergency Department Clinical Director Anil Nair says continual life-like practice of CPR is important to improving patient survival rates. “Some clinicians do not perform CPR regularly in their day-to-day jobs, so simulation is the only way they can refine their skills and grow in confidence.

“CPR simulation using RQI will ensure our clinicians can practice more often, building their experience in a risk-free setting, so they are more prepared and capable to get it right when it matters.”

RQI also brings cost-saving benefits and increases the amount of time that clinicians can spend treating patients, as there are no instructor fees and training can happen on the ward. RQI training is mobile, takes just 10 minutes, and gives immediate feedback to the trainee and their supervisor, so any competence issues can be dealt with straight away.

This remarkable donation from the Lindsay Foundation will touch so many lives for years to come.

Auckland Hospital Foundation Director Candy Schroder says, “A wonderful aspect of funding simulation training and, in particular technology like RQI, is that the benefits are so far reaching. It saves money and time, it empowers clinicians, and it improves patient care in ways that wouldn’t otherwise be possible.

“We’re so grateful to the Lindsay Foundation for recognising the value of RQI training. Their generosity will literally help clinicians to save lives, which is the greatest gift of all, and we know our clinicians, patients and their families will also be forever grateful.

“Our three-year campaign to develop world-class simulation in Auckland will only be successful through donations to fund the people, equipment and space to make it a reality. Any donations, large or small, will go directly towards empowering those who strive to save lives.”

To discuss how you can join the Lindsay Foundation in making a difference today, contact Candy Schroder on 09 307 6039 or candy@ahf.org.nz 

About the Lindsay Foundation

The Lindsay Foundation’s main focus is to support individuals and organisations in New Zealand who make a positive impact specifically, but not limited to, the areas of animal welfare, children, disabilities and health. To learn more about the Lindsay Foundation or to apply for funding, visit: https://www.lindsayfoundation.co.nz/

* Photo courtesy of Laerdal