A study to assess the effectiveness of a demonstration on knowledge and practice regarding Basic Life Support of senior secondary school students in a selected school at Haldwani

Author Name: Ms. Neha Rautela

Volume: 02/02

Country: India

DOI NO.: 11.2023-61555522 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/09.2024-81924257/GIJNR

Affiliation:

1. Nursing Tutor, Wisdom Public School, Haldwani, Uttarakhand, India

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Basic Life Support (BLS) is a critical skill for emergency medical intervention, focusing on maintaining airway and supporting circulation during cardiac or respiratory arrest until advanced support is available. Teaching BLS in schools is essential for equipping students with fundamental life-saving skills. Methods: A quantitative quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design was employed to evaluate the effectiveness of a BLS training program among 100 senior secondary school students in Haldwani. Non-probability convenience sampling was used to select participants. Data collection involved a structured knowledge questionnaire, an observation practice checklist, and a socio-demographic proforma. The study was conducted in three phases: pre-test (to assess initial knowledge and practice), BLS demonstration over four days, and post-test (to evaluate changes in knowledge and practice) on Day 7. Pretesting, reliability testing, and validation of tools were completed prior to the main study, with a pilot study confirming methodological feasibility. Results: The study sample predominantly included students aged 15-17 years (70%) and males (59%). Notably, 83% of students initially lacked BLS knowledge, and 22% had previously assisted in emergency situations. There was no significant association between pre-test scores and socio-demographic variables. The mean percentage difference in pre-test and post-test knowledge scores showed a 3% improvement (t = 15.99, p = 0.00), and practice scores increased by 12.7% (t = 32.76, p = 0.00). Both improvements were statistically significant at the 0.05 level. Conclusion: The BLS demonstration program significantly enhanced both knowledge and practical skills among high school students. The results support the integration of BLS training into school curricula to better prepare students for emergency situations

Key words: Demonstration, Knowledge, Basic Life Support, Senior Secondary school students.