Knowledge of Students of Selected Fields at the Medical University of Lodz on Basic Resuscitation Procedures

Abstract

Background Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a sudden medical condition in which the mechanical function of the heart is impaired and consequently ceases. It is the most common cause of human death in Europe. In order to increase survival rates, it is essential to spread knowledge among the public about life-saving techniques. Medical students, as a specific health-related group, should be familiar with current life-threatening emergency management regimens. Objective The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge of students of selected faculties at the Medical University of Lodz on basic resuscitation procedures (BLS – Basic Life Support). Material and methods Online survey questionnaire consisting of 25 questions developed by the study authors. The study involved 327 students of selected faculties: medicine, nursing, paramedicine, public health at the Medical University of Lodz. Inclusion criteria for the study: age >= 18 years, status as a student of the aforementioned faculties at the Medical University of Lodz, informed consent to participate in the study. Results 80.7% (264) of the students were familiar with the management algorithm: 85.6% (89) of medical students, 79.8% (67) of nursing students, 81.0% (60) of paramedic students, and 71.6% (48) of public health students; 81.5% (145) of those familiar with the algorithm were female, and 79.9% (119) were male students. 92.3% of medical students, 82.1% of nursing students, 90.3% of paramedic students and 64.1% of public health students had knowledge of AEDs. Among the respondents, the most common sources of knowledge about BLS were the medical school classes (68.5% (224)) and the Internet (24.16% (79)). Conclusions The knowledge of the students of selected courses of the Medical University of Lodz was satisfactory. The majority of students knew the procedure algorithm and emergency numbers. The main source of BLS knowledge for students were classes at the medical university and the Internet. The process of educating medical students and the entire society about BLS should be continuously pursued.