Voice Assistants Fail to Provide Essential CPR Instructions, Study Finds
Voice assistants like Google Assistant, Siri, and Alexa have become increasingly popular in assisting with everyday tasks such as checking the weather or finding a recipe. However, a new study has revealed that these virtual assistants may not be reliable sources of information when it comes to a life-or-death situation like cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
According to the study published on Monday, only 59% of voice assistant responses included information related to CPR, and just one third provided actual CPR instructions. The study, conducted by researchers who asked eight CPR-related questions to four different voice assistants, highlighted inconsistencies and a lack of relevance in the answers provided.
Lead study author Dr. Adam Landman, chief information officer and senior vice president of digital at Mass General Brigham, expressed concern over the findings. He emphasized that those witnessing a medical emergency should not rely on voice assistants for accurate and timely information. Instead, bystanders should prioritize calling emergency services by dialing 911 if they suspect someone is experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
Dr. Comilla Sasson, vice president for science and innovation at the American Heart Association, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for credible organizations like the AHA to provide accurate information in emergency situations. She also stressed the importance of bystanders being prepared and educated in CPR and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
To ensure a prompt and effective response to a cardiac event, it is crucial for people to take the time to learn about CPR and familiarize themselves with AEDs. The American Heart Association offers CPR courses, and resources are available on their website to create cardiac response plans for schools, workplaces, and sports venues. Sharing this information with others and raising awareness about CPR can save lives, as about 960 people in the US experience a cardiac arrest every day.
While the study revealed the limitations of current voice assistant technology in providing reliable CPR instructions, there is room for improvement. Dr. Landman suggested working with tech companies to incorporate evidence-based CPR content to enhance the quality and accuracy of instructions delivered by voice assistants. This could include standardization of phrases and the use of interactive features like music to guide proper chest compressions.
In conclusion, while voice assistants may be useful for certain tasks, they cannot be relied upon for accurate or timely CPR instructions. Bystanders must always call 911 in the event of a medical emergency. However, with further advancements and collaboration between healthcare professionals and tech companies, there is potential to improve the effectiveness of voice assistants in providing life-saving instructions during critical situations like cardiac arrest.
