Impact of Basic Life Support Training Program among Saudi Primary School Teachers in Riyadh

Abstract

Introduction: Basic Life Support (BLS) training plays a crucial role in equipping individuals to provide immediate emergency care until medical help is available. In the school setting, where injuries are common among students, teachers serve as primary caregivers and first responders. This study aimed to assess the impact of BLS training on the resuscitation knowledge and skills of primary school teachers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.Methods: A randomized interventional trial was conducted with 48 primary school teachers, aged 23 to 50 years. After providing a concise BLS training program, participants completed a pre-and post-test questionnaire assessing their understanding of resuscitation techniques. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used for data analysis.Results: Before the BLS training, the participants demonstrated limited knowledge and skills in resuscitation techniques. For instance, only 20.8% correctly identified the ideal compression depth, and 33.3% were unsure about the ideal steps for Basic Life Support. However, after the training, a significant improvement was observed in participants' knowledge and skills, with a higher percentage answering correctly in the post-training questionnaire (e.g., 87.5% correctly identified the recommended compression rate, and 75% accurately identified the ideal steps for Basic Life Support). Conclusion: This study highlights the positive impact of BLS training on the resuscitation knowledge and skills of primary school teachers in Riyadh. Primary school teachers can enhance emergency response capabilities and contribute to student safety, by providing teachers with the necessary knowledge and practical skills. These findings emphasize the importance of implementing targeted training programs in schools to improve resuscitation education for teachers.