CPR Skill Retention

Both training groups retained CPR skill levels above their pretest baseline at the 6-month assessment. At 6 months, SSL and ML groups showed no statistically significant difference in any CPR performance metric, including compression depth, rate, and hand placement. CPR skill decay after initial training is well-documented, with significant deterioration occurring within months. The equivalent retention outcomes in both groups are explained primarily by the minimal real-world difference in total practice time between them. No decline in CPR compression performance was observed in the mastery learning group at 6 months, suggesting the 90% proficiency threshold may support long-term skill retention. Short periodic refresher sessions are recommended as more efficient for sustaining long-term CPR competency than extending initial training beyond a mastery threshold.