Knowledge of basic life support amongst Medical/Paramedical Professionals, in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), a critical skill within basic life support (BLS), is essential for medical professionals in cases of cardiac or respiratory failure. This study aims to evaluate the BLS knowledge and practical application among healthcare professionals at a tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan, to enhance training outcomes.

Objective: The primary objective was to assess the knowledge and practical skills of BLS among medical and paramedical staff at Ziauddin Hospital and identify gaps in training to improve emergency response effectiveness.

Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study involved 400 healthcare workers from various departments of Ziauddin Hospital between February and April 2024. Participants were selected to represent a diverse group of doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff. Data was collected using a standardized questionnaire based on European standards and guidelines from the American Heart Association and the Resuscitation Council. The questionnaire included both theoretical and practical aspects of BLS. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, with frequencies, percentages, and chi-square tests applied to assess associations between variables. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ziauddin Hospital Ethical Review Committee, ensuring adherence to the Declaration of Helsinki.

Results: The study revealed that 80% of participants knew the abbreviation for BLS. However, only 26.8% correctly identified the immediate action for an unconscious victim. The correct site for chest compressions in adults and infants was known by 88% and 84.5% of participants, respectively. Awareness of AEDs and EMS was high, at 95% and 93%. Practical skills were notably weaker, with significant variability in emergency responses: 26.8% would give two breaths immediately to an unconscious victim, and 76% incorrectly chose to compress the abdomen for a victim submerged in water. The mean age of participants was 27±4.9 years, with a gender distribution of 51.5% female and 48.5% male.

Conclusion: While healthcare professionals at Ziauddin Hospital possess strong theoretical knowledge of BLS, there are significant gaps in practical application, especially in emergency scenarios. To improve patient outcomes in emergencies, more practical, scenario-based training is necessary. This study underscores the need for ongoing, hands-on training sessions to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice.