Community Preparedness and Response to Life-Threatening Emergencies: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract

Life-threatening emergencies (LTEs), including cardiac arrest, drowning, and electric shock incidents, need immediate and effective first aid response. Community-based training programs are essential in preparing individuals with the knowledge and skills to manage such emergencies, thus reducing prehospital morbidity and mortality. To assess the effectiveness of basic life support (BLS) training on the community’s knowledge and practical skills in responding to LTEs in a rural setting in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A quasi-experimental study with a pre-test and post-test design was conducted from September to December in Karachi, Pakistan. Thirty male participants aged 18 and above were conveniently sampled and equally divided into an intervention group of 15 and a control group of 15. The intervention group received a two-hour for one-week BLS training program consisting of interactive lectures, practical demonstrations, and role-playing exercises. The knowledge and practical skills pre- and post-intervention were assessed using an adopted questionnaire and an observational checklist. Data analysis was carried out in SPSS version 26. Baseline Both groups were found to have no significant difference in knowledge, p = 0.51 and practical skills, p = 0.62. The intervention group, following training, was found to be significantly improved as compared to the control group regarding knowledge, 9.2 ± 0.8 vs. 4.8 ± 1.3, p < 0.001, and practical skills, median score: 8, IQR: 7–9 vs. 2, IQR: 1–3, p < 0.001. Community-based BLS training significantly boosts knowledge and the practical skills with which to effectively manage LTEs. This article highlights the potential of such interventions in community preparation strategies to build better emergency responses and outcomes.