Evaluation of public awareness, knowledge and attitudes towards basic life support: a cross-sectional study

Knowledge and barriers of out of hospital cardiac arrest bystander intervention and public access automated external defibrillator use in the Northeast of England: a cross-sectional survey study

Intervention by members of the public during an out of hospital cardiac arrest (OHAC) including resuscitation attempts and accessible automated external defibrillator (AED) has been shown to improve survival. This study aimed to investigate the OHCA and AED knowledge and confidence, and barriers to intervention, of the public of North East England, UK. This study used a face-to-face cross-sectional survey on a public high street in Newcastle, UK. Participants were asked unprompted to explain what they would do when faced with an OHCA collapse. Chi-Square analysis was used to test the association of the independent variables sex and first aid trained on the participants' responses. Of the 421 participants recruited to our study, 82.9% (n = 349) reported that they would know what to do during an OHCA collapse. The most frequent OHCA action mentioned was call 999 (64.1%, n = 270/421) and 58.2% (n = 245/421) of participants reported that they would commence CPR. However, only 14.3% (n = 60/421) of participants spontaneously mentioned that they would locate an AED, while only 4.5% (n = 19/421) recounted that they would apply the AED. Just over half of participants (50.8%, n = 214/421) were first aid trained, with statistically more females (57.3%, n = 126/220) than males (43.9%,  n = 87/198) being first aiders (p = 0.01 χ2 = 7.41). Most participants (80.3%, n = 338/421) knew what an AED was, and 34.7% (n = 326/421) reported that they knew how to use one, however, only 11.9% (n = 50/421) mentioned that they would actually shock a patient. Being first aid trained increased the likelihood of freely recounting actions for OHCA and AED intervention. The most common barrier to helping during an OHCA was lack of knowledge (29.9%, n = 126/421). Although most participants reported they would know what to do during an OHCA and had knowledge of an AED, low numbers of participants spontaneously mentioned specific OHCA and AED actions. Improving public knowledge would help improve the public's confidence of intervening during an OHCA and may improve OHCA survival.

OHCA in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) refers to the cessation of mechanical cardiac activity outside healthcare facilities which requires prompt intervention and intensive resuscitative efforts. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant disruptions to OHCA systems-of-care, adversely affecting every component of the chain of survival.

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine the potential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on OHCA events, to draw comparisons between the period before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This cross-sectional study encompassed data pertaining to all OHCA incidents attended to by the Emergency Medical Service of Canton Sarajevo, covering the period from January 2017 to December 2022, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

During observed period, a total of 1418 [796 (56.1%) before and 622 (43.9%) during COVID-19 pandemic] OHCA events have occurred in Canton Sarajevo of which 297 (20.9 %) [180 (12.7%) before and 117 (8.2%) during COVID-19 pandemic] obtained ROSC. After a 30-day period following the ROSC) it was observed that the predominant outcome, accounting for 181 (12.7%) [106 (7.4%) before and 75 (5.2%) during COVID-19 pandemic] of cases, was a complete recovery. An examination before and during COVID-19 pandemic revealed a decline in OHCA during the year 2021 and 2022 when COVID-19 pandemic was at its highest in the country Being younger, quicker EMT response time and individuals with the initial rhythm of VF or VT were significantly associated with obtaining ROSC (p<0.05). Only 48 (3.3%) of 1418 OHCA events were assisted by bystanders There was no report of AED usage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our investigation highlights the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on OHCA events in Canton Sarajevo, revealing a decrease in OHCA incidence and a reduction in cases achieving ROSC. Notably, EMT response time was shorter during the pandemic.

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Willingness Among People With and Without Heart Disease Relatives in Saudi Arabia Regarding Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving procedure that can be performed in many situations where a person's breathing or heartbeat has stopped, such as during a heart attack, suffocation, near drowning, or electrical injuries. Despite its importance, to our knowledge, no research has been conducted yet in our community on the differences in CPR knowledge, attitudes, and willingness between those with and without heart disease relatives. Objective This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and willingness of people with and without heart disease relatives to perform CPR in a case of cardiac arrest. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out between July 2023 and October 2023 among the Saudi Arabia population using a self-administered online questionnaire focusing on the sociodemographic characteristics of participants and the level of knowledge, attitude toward CPR, and the willingness to perform CPR in a case of cardiac arrest. Results This study included 799 participants, with 331 males (41.4%) and 468 females (58.6%). Age distribution was mainly in the range of 18-25 years (241 participants, 30.2%). Geographically, the highest proportion was from the southern region (214 participants, 26.8%). The majority had a university degree (533 participants, 66.7%). Employment status varied, with 401 participants (50.2%) working outside the medical field. Monthly income showed that 297 (37.2%) had an income ranging from 2,000 to 10,000 SAR. The average daily sleep duration varied, with the majority (64.7%) reporting six to nine hours of sleep. Also, 44.2% of participants reported exercising. Regarding smoking status, 80.9% reported not smoking. A family history of heart disease was reported by 46.4% of participants, whereas 16.3% reported a personal diagnosis of heart disease. Regarding knowledge, 40.8% correctly identified when CPR should be performed. Only 40.4% correctly identified the first step in a CPR situation, and only 22.9% identified the correct sequence of steps for performing CPR. Additionally, only 66.5% correctly identified the emergency hotline number "Red Crescent." Furthermore, only 8.9% knew the correct compression/ventilation ratio for adults during CPR. As for the attitude, a significant percentage (65.0%) had not taken a CPR course. However, the majority (84.6%) expressed a strong desire to learn CPR. Interestingly, the participants showed a positive attitude toward CPR education. Among the participants, 53.9% responded that they performed CPR when encountering a situation that required it, while 46.1% did not. Regarding the participants' willingness to perform CPR on different individuals, the majority (74.1%) expressed their readiness to perform CPR whenever needed. Conclusion The findings demonstrated knowledge gaps, with misconceptions about CPR. However, participants generally expressed a positive attitude toward CPR education and a willingness to learn. Factors such as age showed a weak association with knowledge level, while gender, region, education, employment, and family history of heart disease did not significantly impact knowledge. The study highlighted the need for improved CPR education and awareness. Hence, we recommend CPR courses to be implemented as a graduation prerequisite. In addition to that, linking some government services to a first aid course would positively impact the general population's practices in CPR and other emergencies.

Assessment of Basic Life Support Knowledge Among Medical Students in Jordan: Implications for Improving Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest and Road Traffic Accident Survival Rates

This study aimed to assess the level of basic life support (BLS) knowledge among fifth- and sixth-year medical students in Jordan, identify differences in knowledge levels between male and female students and between different universities, and provide insights into the current status of BLS training in medical education in Jordan. The study had 570 respondents, with females constituting 61.1% of the sample. The total average score for medical students was 12.24/17 (72%), and there was a considerable variation in the response rate between universities. The study found that students whose source of knowledge was previous college courses had the highest mean score, and only 24.9% knew the proper position of both hands while doing chest compressions. The study underscores the importance of adequate BLS training for healthcare providers to improve survival rates and reduce mortality and morbidity associated with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and road traffic accidents. The findings of this study could inform future interventions aimed at improving BLS knowledge and skills.

Application of Automated External Defibrillators Among the Public: A Cross-Sectional Study of Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, and Barriers of Use in Saudi Arabia

Background

The likelihood of survival of an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest quadruples with the rapid application of basic life support (BLS). The public's ability to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and use automated external defibrillators (AEDs) is extremely important. This study aimed to assess the public knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of utilizing AEDs and to understand barriers to AED application.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study from March 1-30, 2022. An electronic questionnaire was constructed and validated to measure the KAP for public AED utilization and its barriers.

Results

Of the 406 participants, 244 (60.10%) were males. Male respondents had 17% less knowledge and poorer attitude towards using an AED as compared to female respondents. Knowledge and attitudes on using AEDs were low (70.7%) among Saudi nationals compared to those of foreign nationals. Those who were BLS/CPR trained had a 2.5 times greater understanding and willingness to use AEDs in public than those who were not. Barriers to AEDs in CPR/BLS-trained participants were: (1) accidentally hurting the victim (14.3%), (2) duty as a bystander to just call the ambulance and wait for help (12.1%), (3) never taught what to do (n = 41, 18.4%), (4) did not want to be scolded if performed wrong (3.1%), and (5) never witnessed such a situation (51.6%).

Conclusion

There is a strong association between knowledge of and willingness to use AEDs in emergency situations among the public. Misconceptions about AEDs hinder their use. This calls for urgent training programs through accessible technology to reach the public.

Knowledge and willingness of schoolteachers in Jordan to perform CPR: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) knowledge and willingness of schoolteachers in Jordan.

DESIGN

This was a cross-sectional study conducted using an online questionnaire.

SETTING

For inclusion in this study, schoolteachers must be currently teaching at any level in schools across the country. Responses were collected from 1 April 2021 to 30 April 2021.

PARTICIPANTS

All schoolteachers actively working in public or private schools were included in our study.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Continuous variables were summarised as means and SD, whereas categorical variables were reported as frequencies and percentages (%). A χ2 test for independence, independent sample t-tests and analysis of variance were used appropriately. A p-value less than 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance.

RESULTS

A total of 385 questionnaires were eligible for analyses. Only 14.5% of the participants received CPR training and overall correct knowledge answers were 18.8% of the total score. Those participants with previous CPR training had higher mean knowledge scores (2.34 vs 1.15, p<0.001). Trained participants were also more likely to provide hands-only CPR to various patient groups than untrained participants (p<0.05). Participants were more willing to provide standard CPR to family members than hands-only CPR (p<0.001), but more willing to provide hands-only CPR to friends (p<0.001), students (75.1% vs 58.2%, p<0.001), neighbour (p<0.001), stranger (p=0.001) and patient from the opposite gender (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Schoolteachers in Jordan possess limited knowledge of CPR. However, the study participants showed a positive attitude towards performing CPR. The study revealed that they were more inclined to provide hands-only CPR than standard CPR. Policymakers and public health officials can take advantage of these findings to incorporate CPR training programmes for schoolteachers, either as a part of their undergraduate studies or as continuing education programmes with an emphasis on hands-only CPR.

Basic life support awareness among medical undergraduate students in Syria, Iraq, and Jordan: a multicenter cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Basic life support (BLS) training rates vary widely worldwide, and there is a general scarcity of surveys that assess students' knowledge and awareness of BLS in middle eastern nations. This study aims to evaluate medical students' knowledge and awareness towards basic life support.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study, using an online web-based questionnaire, assessing BLS awareness and knowledge, was conducted from 3 to 30 November 2021. The study included 2114 medical students from Syria, Iraq, and Jordan. The questionnaire consisted of three sections: demographic baseline characteristics, knowledge about BLS, and ability to apply basic life support. A binominal logistic regression was done between the total score and other demographic characteristics to determine if we could predict the research sample's appropriate knowledge of BLS level.

RESULTS

There was a moderate knowledge of BLS and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills among participating students with an average score of 19.67 (0-34). Seventy-eight of the participants (1656) stated that they have not attended a basic life support course. There was a significant difference between the participants from different countries, where the mean score in Syria, Jordan, and Iraq was 18.3, 24.3, and 18.8, respectively (p < 0.05). Considering the level of knowledge, 18.3%, 72.8%, and 8.9% of the participants had a high, intermediate, and low level, respectively. Furthermore, students who took a BLS course had a higher level of knowledge than those who did not, with an odds ratio of 5.168 (p value < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The overall knowledge of medical students' basic life support knowledge is insufficient and need to be greatly improved. According to this study, previous participation in basic life support training had a positive effect on knowledge level. As a result, universities must establish basic life support programs as quickly as possible.

Geographical Association Between Basic Life Support Courses and Bystander Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Survival from OHCA in Denmark

Introduction

Annually, approximately 4% of the entire adult population of Denmark participate in certified basic life support (BLS) courses. It is still unknown whether increases in BLS course participation in a geographical area increase bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). The aim of the study was to examine the geographical association between BLS course participation, bystander CPR, and 30-day survival from OHCA.

Methods

This nationwide register-based cohort study includes all OHCAs from the Danish Cardiac Arrest Register. Data concerning BLS course participation were supplied by the major Danish BLS course providers. A total of 704,234 individuals with BLS course certificates and 15,097 OHCA were included from the period 2016-2019. Associations were examined using logistic regression and Bayesian conditional autoregressive analyses conducted at municipality level.

Results

A 5% increase in BLS course certificates at municipality level was significantly associated with an increased likelihood of bystander CPR prior to ambulance arrival with an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 1.34 (credible intervals: 1.02;1.76). The same trends were observed for OHCAs in out-of-office hours (4pm-08am) with a significant OR of 1.43 (credible intervals: 1.09;1.89). Local clusters with low rate of BLS course participation and bystander CPR were identified.

Conclusion

This study found a positive effect of mass education in BLS on bystander CPR rates. Even a 5% increase in BLS course participation at municipal level significantly increased the likelihood of bystander CPR. The effect was even more profound in out-of-office hours with an increase in bystander CPR rate at OHCA.

Training in Basic Life Support and Bystander-Performed Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Survival in Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrests in Denmark, 2005 to 2019

IMPORTANCE

Strategies to improve survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) include mass education of laypersons with no official duty to respond to OHCA. In Denmark, basic life support (BLS) course attendance has been mandated by law in October 2006 for obtaining a driver's license for all vehicles and in vocational education programs.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the association between yearly BLS course participation rate and bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and 30-day survival from OHCA and to examine if bystander CPR rate acted as a mediator on the association between mass education of laypersons in BLS and survival from OHCA.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This cohort study included outcomes for all OHCA incidents from the Danish Cardiac Arrest Register between 2005 and 2019. Data concerning BLS course participation were supplied by the major Danish BLS course providers.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The main outcome was 30-day survival of patients who experienced OHCA. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between BLS training rate, bystander CPR rate, and survival, and a bayesian mediation analysis was conducted to examine mediation.

RESULTS

A total of 51 057 OHCA incidents and 2 717 933 course certificates were included. The study showed that the annual 30-day survival from OHCA increased by 14% (odds ratio [OR], 1.14; 95% CI, 1.10-1.18; P < .001) when BLS course participation rate increased by 5% in analysis adjusted for initial rhythm, automatic external defibrillator use, and mean age. An average mediated proportion of 0.39 (95% QBCI, 0.049-0.818; P = .01). In other words, the last result indicated that 39% of the association between mass educating laypersons in BLS and survival was mediated through an increased bystander CPR rate.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this cohort study of Danish BLS course participation and survival, a positive association was found between annual rate of mass education in BLS and 30-day survival from OHCA. The association of BLS course participation rate on 30-day survival was mediated by the bystander CPR rate; approximately 60% of the association of BLS course participation rate on 30-day survival was based on factors other than increased CPR rates.

How to evaluate first aid skills after training: a systematic review

Background

To be able to help and save lives, laypersons are recommended to undergo first aid trainings. The aim of this review was to explore the variety of the elements of the measuring systems to assess the effects of first aid trainings on different aspects of first aid skills including practical skills, knowledge, and emotional perspectives.

Methods

This systematic literature review used Scopus and PubMed databases and searched for studies published between January, 2000, and December, 2020. Out of 2,162 studies meeting the search criteria, 15 studies with quantitative and repeatable evaluation methods to assess first aid skills after first aid training for adults were included in the final analysis.

Results

Practical skills, especially on the ability to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and to use an automated external defibrillator, were the most studied first aid skills after first aid training. This evaluation was based on several standardized measurements and assessed often with the help of a combination of resuscitation manikin and observer. Evaluation methods of performance in other emergency situations are not well standardized. Questionnaires used to assess knowledge of first aid, though seemingly based on guidelines, were also not standardized, either. Emotional aspects of first aid (willingness or self-confidence) were evaluated by highly simplified questionnaires, and answers were graded by five-point Likert scale.

Conclusion

According to our review, the focus of evaluation methods after first aid training has been on practical skills and especially on CPR. Though the evaluation of first-aid knowledge seems to be straightforward, it is not performed systematically. Evaluation methods for emotional aspects are highly simplified. Overall, standardized measurements and evaluation methods to assess all aspects of first aid skills are needed.

Comparing the effectiveness of a group-directed video instruction versus instructor-led traditional classroom instruction for learning cardiopulmonary resuscitation skills among first-year medical students: A prospective randomized controlled study

Introduction: Bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training is inconsistent among students and the public. Existing CPR teaching courses are costly, time-consuming, and inconsistent. This study aimed to determine the association between overall CPR competency and two teaching modules, a group-directed video instruction module versus an instructor-led traditional classroom instruction module. Methods: This randomized prospective interventional study involved first year medical students of Universiti Sains Malaysia Health Campus from November 2018 until January 2019. Pass-fail scores representing the overall CPR, individual skill performance, and willingness to perform CPR for strangers and family members were collected. Factors associated with reluctance to perform CPR were assessed in a questionnaire. Results: A total of 99 participants were included, 50 in the group-directed video instruction as the intervention module and 49 in the traditional classroom instruction as the control module. There was no statistical significance between the pass and fail outcomes for both video module (p=0.436). Participants in both modules performed similarly in 8 out of 12 individual CPR skills. There was a significant difference in the distribution of skill scores between the pass and fail outcomes (p=<0.001). The intervention module is non-inferior compared to the control module, in relation to CPR willingness rates for strangers (p=0.999) and family members (p=0.117) after the training. Conclusions: The group-directed video self-instruction method is as effective as the instructor-led traditional classroom method to help participants to be competent and willing to perform CPR. It can be used as an independent or supplementary teaching tool for first-time learners and refreshers, especially in a group setting when teaching materials are limited.

Effectiveness of cardiopulmonary resuscitation training in the teaching of family members of cardiac patients

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of a cardiopulmonary resuscitation training in the skill acquisition of family members of heart disease patients.

METHOD

A quasi-experimental study, conducted in a hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. The study participants were one or more relatives of patients with heart disease that were hospitalized at the institution. In the first phase, the participant's skills and theoretical knowledge on cardiopulmonary resuscitation were evaluated before and immediately after the training. The second phase took place one month after the training, in which the same evaluations were applied. The McNemar's and Stuart-Maxwell tests were adopted (5% significance level).

RESULTS

The theoretical knowledge of family members before and after training increased and a great retention of this knowledge after 30 days of training was observed. Immediately after training, the family members showed significant improvement of skills in the 15 analyzed actions and, after one month of training, they maintained most of the acquired practices on cardiopulmonary resuscitation, except for chest compressions frequency and the time between turning on the defibrillator and delivering the shock.

CONCLUSION

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation training was effective in the acquisition of theoretical and practical knowledge of the family members.

Efetividade de treinamento sobre ressuscitação cardiopulmonar na aprendizagem de familiares de pacientes cardiopatas

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a efetividade de um treinamento sobre ressuscitação cardiopulmonar na aprendizagem de familiares de pacientes cardiopatas. Método: Estudo quase experimental, realizado em hospital de São Paulo, Brasil. Participaram da pesquisa um ou mais familiares de pacientes cardiopatas internados na instituição. Na primeira fase foram avaliados o conhecimento teórico e as habilidades dos participantes sobre a ressuscitação cardiopulmonar antes e imediatamente após o treinamento. A segunda fase aconteceu um mês após o treinamento, com a aplicação das mesmas avaliações. Os testes McNemar e Stuart-Maxwell foram adotados (nível de significância de 5%). Resultados: Houve aumento do conhecimento teórico dos familiares antes e após o treinamento e elevada retenção desse conhecimento após 30 dias da capacitação. Os familiares apresentaram, após o treinamento, melhora significativa das habilidades nas 15 ações analisadas e, após um mês da capacitação, mantiveram a maioria das práticas assimiladas sobre ressuscitação cardiopulmonar, com exceção da frequência das compressões torácicas e do tempo entre ligar o desfibrilador e aplicar o choque. Conclusão: O treinamento sobre ressuscitação cardiopulmonar foi efetivo na aprendizagem teórica e prática dos familiares.

Application of the Modified Basic Life Support Training Model in Improving Community Residents' Rescue Willingness in Nantong City in China

OBJECTIVE

This study explores the application and effect of the modified basic life support training in improving the first-aid level and rescue willingness of community residents in China.

METHODS

A total of 94 residents of a community in Nantong city were selected as the subjects by cluster sampling to receive the modified basic life support (BLS) training. The BLS knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of all recruited subjects were evaluated by a questionnaire before and after training. A skill operation assessment was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the modified BLS training.

RESULTS

There were statistically significant differences in the BLS rescue willingness, theory, and skill scores before and after the training (P < 0.01). A total of 93.62% of the residents considered the modified BLS training model easier to learn and acceptable than the traditional model, and 92.55% of them thought the training content and teaching arrangement were reasonable.

CONCLUSION

The modified BLS training model could improve the community residents' rescue willingness and skill mastery rates, enhance their first-aid skills and awareness, reduce the risk of disease transmission to a certain extent, and improve the success rate of prehospital first aid to ensure the safety of rescuers and patients.

Awareness and attitude about basic life support among medical school students in Jeddah University, 2019: A cross-sectional study

Objectives:

To measure the level of knowledge and awareness towards basic life support (BLS) among students in preclinical years at Jeddah University (JU), and to determine their willingness to participate in BLS training in the near future.

Subjects and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among first-, second-, and third-year medical students of JU. A 27-item questionnaire measured the level of awareness and knowledge about BLS, including: 1) basic Information (seven items); 2) rescue reflex (eight items); and 3) CPR technique and process (12 items). Demographic and academic data, experience and exposure to BLS, and attitude regarding BLS (six items) were analysed as factors of adequate knowledge.

Results:

One hundred and four male students participated and 65 (62.5%) of them were in the second academic year. The correct answers varied from 10.6% to 67.3%, with eight items having <30% correct answers; and seven items showed >50% correct answers. Mean (SD) and median (P75) overall knowledge scores were 37.86 (13.92) and 37.04 (44.44) out of 100, respectively. Twenty-four (23.11%) participants attended a training course in BLS and 13 (12.5%) have ever performed BLS, either voluntarily or not voluntarily, and 18 (17.3%) felt that their current knowledge was sufficient. Knowledge level showed no statistically significant association with any of the investigated factors.

Conclusion:

There is an urgent need to integrate BLS courses to medical students to enrich their knowledge and improve resuscitation skills and ensure implementation of correct resuscitation techniques.

Awareness of Iranian Medical Sciences Students Towards Basic Life Support; a Cross-Sectional study

Introduction

Augmentation of the number of trained basic life support (BLS) providers can remarkably reduce the number of cardiac arrest victims. The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of BLS awareness among students of medical sciences in Iran.

Methods

This multicenter cross-sectional study was performed on medical students at the 4 major medical schools in Tehran, the capital of Iran, between Jan 2018 and Feb 2019, using convenience sampling method. The level of medical sciences students' awareness of BLS was measured using an international questionnaire.

Results

Finally, 1210 students with the mean age of 21.2 ± 2.3 years completed the survey (79% female). 133 (10.9%) students had CPR experience and none had received any formal training. None of the responders could answer all questions correctly. The mean awareness score of participants was 11.93 ± 2.87 (range: 10.13 -17.25). The awareness score of participants was high in 49 (4.04 %) participants, moderate in 218 (18.01%), and low in 943 (77.93%) of studied cases.

Conclusion

Based on the findings of this study, more than 70% of the studied medical sciences students obtained a low score on BLS awareness.

Knowledge of non-healthcare individuals towards cardiopulmonary resuscitation: a cross-sectional study in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia

Background

Most sudden cardiac arrests occur at home, with low rates of bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation being performed. We aimed to assess knowledge of cardiopulmonary resuscitation among individuals in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia, who are not involved in health care.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted between January and February 2020 in 4 different areas in Riyadh City: North, South, East, and West. The participants were surveyed using a validated self-administered questionnaire. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25.0 was used for inferential statistics and binary logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 856 participants completed the questionnaire, 51.8% were unaware of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Only 4.4% of the participants had attended a formal cardiopulmonary resuscitation training course, 5.1% were campaign attendees, and 38.7% acquired their experience through the media. Having a higher level of education was positively associated with having knowledge of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The main concern among attendees of cardiopulmonary resuscitation training courses and campaigns was legal issues, whereas inadequate knowledge was the major barrier for those who had learned about cardiopulmonary resuscitation through the media.

Conclusion

The level of knowledge of cardiopulmonary resuscitation among non-health care individuals in Riyadh City was found to be insufficient. Therefore, coordinated efforts among different authorities should be considered to implement a structured strategy aiming to increase awareness and knowledge of cardiopulmonary resuscitation among non-health care individuals.

Evaluation of Awareness, Knowledge, and Attitudes Towards Basic Life Support Among Non-Medical Students at Two Academic Institutions in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND

Cardiac arrests are a leading cause of mortality in Saudi Arabia. Prompt and quick intervention using early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can be a life-saving strategy. Sufficient knowledge and awareness regarding CPR are important in initial care, particularly during an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. We aim to assess the knowledge, awareness, and attitude toward CPR among the students of King Abdulaziz University and Jeddah University.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A descriptive, cross-sectional study design with a sample of 1053 non-medical students, regardless of their academic year, was conducted from May to July 2019 at both universities. Data were analyzed through chi-square and analysis of variance where a P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Out of 1053 students, 28.7% received CPR training. Also, the majority of the subjects were female 71%. The science department provided the largest response. Results showed that chest pain was the most observed early sign of cardiac arrest among participants by a percentage of 84.6. Majority of the participants (90.9%) felt no hesitation in performing early CPR on a family member. Additionally, committing a mistake was the most feared factor that deterred students from performing CPR.

CONCLUSION

Knowledge and awareness of CPR among non-medical university students were poor, despite positive attitudes toward it. Integrating mandatory CPR courses in the orientation and in the first year of the undergraduate curriculum could increase awareness and improve the outcomes of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA).

Basic Life Support Knowledge and Its Associated Factors Among a Non-Medical Population in Gondar Town, Ethiopia

Background

Different life-threatening accidents can happen anywhere at any time in our daily livings. In this study, the knowledge about basic life support was below average among the non-medical population.

Objective

The aim of the study was to assess basic life support knowledge and its associated factors among non-medical population attending the outpatient department.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January 15/2020 to February 30/2020. Systematic random sampling was employed to get representative samples. Data were collected by using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. The data were analyzed by using a binary logistic regression model. Crude and adjusted odds ratios with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals were computed. Those variables with P-values of ≤0.05 were considered significantly associated with the outcome variable.

Results

A total of 412 participants took part in the study with a response rate of 97.4%. Among the participants, 183 (44.4%) [95% CI (39.8–49.5)] were knowledgeable about basic life support. Age of 30–40 years was 50% [AOR=1.50, 95% CI (1.15–1.97)], the age of >40 years was 2.45 [AOR=2.45, 95 CI (1.53–3.91)], being male [AOR=2.22, 95% CI (1.41–3.49)], lived in the urban [AOR=1.66, 95% CI (1.25–3.56)], being trained [AOR=4.65, 95% CI (1.85–11.67)], ever heard about BLS and having exposure with the person in need of BLS [AOR=3.02, 95% CI (2.05–4.74)], and [AOR=2.59, 95% CI (1.69–3.98)] times more to be knowledgeable as compared with their counterparts.

Conclusion

The finding of this study demonstrated that knowledge score of the participants was below average. Therefore, there has to be more to do so as to scale up the knowledge of the community for reducing preventable deaths from unexpected emergency situations.

Training of Basic Life Support Among Lay Undergraduates: Development and Implementation of an Evidence-Based Protocol

Background

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is an important method to improve the prognosis of patients with prehospital cardiac arrest (CA). Basic life support (BLS) is the first step in CPR and is usually performed by the first witness. However, the general population has poor BLS skills due to the lack of efficient and practical training strategy. Several training initiatives could be used to improve this situation, and the challenge is to find the most efficient one in detail according to the actual setting. Repeated and effective BLS training increase bystander’s confidence and willingness to perform BLS. Evidence-based instructional design is essential to improve the training of lay providers and ultimately improve resuscitation performance and patient outcomes.

Objective

1) To develop an evidence-based BLS training protocol for lay undergraduates; 2) to implement the protocol and 3) to evaluate the process of implementation.

Methods

Nine databases were searched to synthesize the best evidence. A protocol was formed by ranking evidence and considering university setting and students’ preferences. We implemented this training protocol and evaluated its effects.

Results

We achieved the three aims above. A total of 120 lay undergraduates received BLS training and retraining within 3 months. The students and teaching staff were satisfied with the training protocol and effect. The BLS training process was more clearly defined. The role of teaching assistants and the strategies to sustain training quality was proven to be crucial to the project’s success.

Conclusion

The development and implementation of an evidence-based protocol could elevate undergraduates’ BLS skill and confidence.

Assessment on CPR Knowledge and AED Availability in Saudi Malls by Security Personnel: Public Safety Perspective

Security personnel are the first ones who attend the scene in the case of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) at malls. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is not enough for those patients; they need an automated external defibrillator (AED) to bring the heart to function normally. This study aimed to assess the current status of CPR and AED knowledge and availability in Saudi malls by security personnel. Using a descriptive design, a study was conducted at seven malls located in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Two hundred and fifty participants were surveyed using the American Heart Association (AHA) 2015 guidelines to assess CPR and AED knowledge and availability in Saudi malls. The sample mean age was 32.60 years (SD = 10.02), and 87% of participants were working as security personnel. The majority of the participants had not received training about CPR and AED (75.8% and 95.2%, respectively). Common misconceptions are fallen into all categories of CPR and AED knowledge. Correctly answered statements ranged from 7.2% in the compression rate to 24.2% in hand placement. The study results indicated a poor training knowledge of CPR and AED in public settings. Integrating high-quality CPR and AED knowledge within the school and college curricula is a vital need. However, in order to maximize the survival rate, it is important to set laws and legislation adopted by stakeholders and decision makers to advocate the people who try to help, mandate AED installation in crowded places, and mandate teaching hands-only CPR and AED together as a package.

Evaluating the awareness of ordinary people about relief operations and cardiopulmonary resuscitation when facing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest

Introduction:

The aim of this paper is to evaluate the awareness of ordinary people about relief operations and accurate cardiopulmonary resuscitation when facing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study including 500 ordinary people who were randomly selected over a 3-month period in Ahvaz County, Ahvaz, Iran, and then asked to perform resuscitation operation on medical moulages. Their performance was then evaluated using a 21-item checklist.

Results:

The awareness of participants about relief operations were only acceptable in 9 cases. Only 1 (0.2%) of them was able to detect a pulse and blood circulation as well as to relieve any airway obstruction. 7 (1.4%) were able to correctly find the position on the chest where external cardiac massage (ECM) should be performed. And only 1 could perform ECM at a rate of 100-120 compressions/min.

Conclusion:

Results obtained from the present study does not confirm the awareness of ordinary people when encountering OHCA. Hence, it is essential to hold related training courses at appropriate intervals to improve their skills and knowledge.