RETENTION OF KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS OF BASIC LIFE SUPPORT AMONG HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS TRAINED IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

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Roohi Ilyas, Khan Shah-e- Zaman, Nousheen Pradhan, Hina Feroz, Zahid Jamal, Najma Amjad, Tahir Saghir, Amin Khwaja, Salman Ghauri, Qasim Ahmed

Abstract

Objective: The study assesses the retention of knowledge and skills of basic life
support training, among health care providers (HCP) who attended the Basic Life
Support (BLS) course.
Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at tertiary care Cardiac
Hospital, Karachi. The sample was taken from among the BLS trained staff of the
hospital. Data was collected using the accredited American Heart Association's
Critical Skill Checklist for skills, and a self prepared questionnaire including the
demographic information of the medical/paramedical staff, and the personal
experience/attitude and knowledge of BLS based on 2010 AHA guidelines.
Results: After excluding incomplete questionnaire, the data from 106 responders
calculated. There people analyzed were, 4 clinical faculty members (3.8%). Post
graduate students were 36(34.3%). House officers were 6 in numbers (5.7%).
Nurses were 46(43.8%). Other health assistants were 13(12.4%). Results
indicate that the retention of knowledge and skills were adequate in most
parameters, but it was found that retention of knowledge and skill was better in
doctors as compared to paramedical staff. Depending upon the place of work,
those working in Emergency Room or were frequently were required to do CPR in
CCU or wards were better off with the skills and knowledge of BLS.
Conclusion: The average health personnel in our hospital found to have adequate
skills in CPR/BLS. But to remain knowledgeable and be ready for prompt action at
time of sudden cardiac arrest, their reflexes should be more alert. This can be
achieved by more frequent update courses.

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