Using music to maintain the correct rhythm during CPR.

BACKGROUND: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is a competency required of all health professionals, but they do not always meet chest compression standards. METHOD: Nurses received a traditional chest compression demonstration or one with music. Their compression rates were measured and compared. RESULTS: After instruction, 66% of nurses who had received demonstration with music performed chest compressions within the recommended range, compared with 41% of those receiving traditional demonstration. CONCLUSION: Using music when teaching CPR can improve nurses' performance of chest compressions at the recommended rate.