Evalvation of knowledge and skills of different professions on basic life support

Abstract

Introduction: Early initiation of Basic Life Support (BLS) procedures by bystanders is one of the most important factors predicting the patient’s survival for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest cases. In this study, we studied the level of BLS knowledge and skills in personnel such as healthcare worker, teachers, police officers, and firemen, who may provide emergency care during their work.
Material and Method: 55 police officers, 46 firemen, 99 nurses and 51 teachers participated. Participants’ answers on written test and their skills on mannequins were evaluated.
Results: In general, participants performed better in written test compared to skills station using mannequins. Participants expressed difficulty on airway maneuvers and control of breathing by "look-listenfeel". Teachers group had the least success rate among all profession groups.
Conclusion: Our results showed that the level of BLS knowledge in teachers, police officers, and firemen is unsatisfactory. Regular training for these groups should be provided and emphasis should be given to practical skills using mannequins.