The effect of verbal pressure on students’ performance during simulated emergency situation—a randomized pilot study

Background: The verbal pressure generated by co-workers and superiors adds to the stress of having even more limited time to make the right decisions, and consequently affects the quality of medical services provided. In our study, we decided to evaluate the effect of verbal pressure, which involved urging paramedic students by team leader, on the effectiveness of chest compressions and preparation for endotracheal intubation (time and completeness of the kit). Methods: Fourteen Polish male paramedic students were randomized into two groups. Participants took part in a low-fidelity simulation scenario of advanced life support. Both groups were tasked with completing an intubation kit based on the SPEEDBOMB checklist, and then performing 2 minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). During the simulation, the control group was subjected to verbal pressure. Students were evaluated using a special prepared score. Results: In general, the research group performed the task with a lower total score, which means they were more efficient. A statistically significant difference was shown in this aspect between the control group and the study group. In addition, there is a negative correlation between the level of stress and the speed of chest compressions. This means that higher levels of stress are associated with slower performance of chest compressions. Conclusions: The stress factor is perceived on an individual basis and can have both positive and negative effects on the performed medical activities. This aspect requires further evaluation on a greater number of participants.