Serious Game vs Traditional BLS Training in Adolescents

This randomized controlled trial aimed to compare the effects of a serious video game and traditional training on adolescents' basic life support (BLS) knowledge and skills. The study was conducted at Üsküdar High School in Istanbul, Turkey, between November 2021 and June 2022. Eleventh-grade students aged 15-17 years who had not previously received BLS training were randomly assigned to a video game group or a traditional education group. A total of 117 students completed the study (58 in the video game group and 55 in the traditional education group). The video game group received BLS education using the Lifesaver serious game, while the traditional group received a lecture based on national BLS guidelines and hands-on practice with a CPR training manikin. BLS knowledge and skills were assessed at baseline, 1 month, and 6 months using validated knowledge and skill assessment forms. The primary objective was to determine whether the serious game improved BLS knowledge and skill scores compared with traditional training and whether the effect persisted at 1- and 6-month follow-up.