Overview
Resusci Anne is a purpose-built training mannequin developed to teach cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic life support skills. Designed for use by emergency personnel, instructors and the general public, it provides a safe, repeatable way to practice airway management, rescue breaths and chest compressions. The original model was produced by Norwegian toymaker Åsmund Laerdal in collaboration with medical researchers, and it quickly became one of the standard tools in resuscitation education.
Design and key features
The mannequin is constructed to mimic essential aspects of the human upper airway and chest so trainees can learn proper head tilt–chin lift, mouth-to-mouth seal and the force and location for compressions. Early models emphasized a realistic oral cavity and flexible chest; later versions added mechanical or electronic feedback to guide depth and rate. Modern iterations may simulate breathing, pulse, obstructed airways or wounds to create more advanced scenarios.
- Realistic airway and chest response for practice
- Feedback systems in advanced models to measure compression depth and ventilation
- Specialized versions for infants, children and trauma scenarios
History and origins
The development of Resusci Anne grew from mid-20th-century advances in resuscitation techniques influenced by clinicians such as Peter Safar and James Elam, who promoted mouth-to-mouth ventilation and standardized CPR procedures. Laerdal introduced the first training mannequins around 1960 to provide a durable, reproducible model for practice. The facial appearance of the original figure was inspired by the well-known death mask of L'Inconnue de la Seine; the mask and its imagery have been linked historically with the mannequin's face in accounts of its design and cultural background (death mask, Seine River).
Typical training use
Instruction with Resusci Anne centers on a sequence that teaches assessment and intervention. Trainees learn to approach a person, check for responsiveness and breathing, summon help, and then begin CPR only when indicated. This approach reinforces that not every unresponsive person requires immediate chest compressions if they are breathing or responsive.
- Check scene safety and response.
- Call for help and activate emergency services.
- Open airway and check breathing; provide rescue breaths if needed.
- Begin chest compressions at the correct rate and depth when indicated.
Impact, variations and notable facts
Resusci Anne has had a broad influence on resuscitation education worldwide, becoming a common name in first aid courses and emergency training. Over the decades the platform has diversified: computerized mannequins provide objective performance metrics, scenario trainers simulate trauma or airway obstructions, and smaller models exist for pediatric practice. The device is often referred to by several names — Rescue Anne, Resusci Annie or CPR Annie — and remains a familiar tool in both community courses and professional certification programs.
Distinctions and further resources
While Resusci Anne refers historically to Laerdal’s original model, many manufacturers now produce CPR mannequins with varying features and pedagogical focuses. For educators and learners seeking more detailed information, equipment specifications, course curricula and supplier details can be found through institutional training programs and manufacturer literature (see links for training mannequin and CPR resources above).
training mannequin • CPR techniques • Laerdal • respiratory system • death mask • Seine River