A Study to Assess the Knowledge Regarding Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Among Staff of Ambulance, Equipped Status of Ambulances, and their Utilization

Abstract

Introduction Most patients are quickly transferred to the hospitals by ambulances worldwide. Hence, it is imperative that ambulance should be well equipped with all emergency equipment and well-trained staff to provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or basic life support (BLS) to victim in pre-hospital environment, if required. Purpose To assess knowledge regarding CPR of ambulance staff, equipped status of ambulances, and their utilization during CPR or first aid. Methods Total 400 ambulance staff were purposively recruited after obtaining informed written consent. They were interviewed as per validated interview schedule regarding CPR knowledge and utilization of equipment during CPR or first aid. Using an observation checklist for assessment of available equipment for CPR and first aid in the ambulance was checked. Results Mean age of participants was 35.57 ± 7.63 years. All were males. Among them 63.75% were posted in private ambulance, and 73.50% ambulances had solo staff. Most (98.25%) ambulances were equipped with oxygen cylinder and only 3.5% had portable ventilator. Majority (75%) lacked the essential equipment as per AHA/national guidelines. Mean knowledge score of participants was 2.85 ± 4.10 and 62.25% and they had poor knowledge regarding CPR and only 12.25% had good/very good knowledge. Conclusion There is a lack of knowledge regarding CPR among ambulance staff and there is lack of equipped status of ambulances. They were not fully aware regarding the use of equipment, which were available in the ambulance in emergency. So, there is a need to train them about CPR as well utilization of ambulance equipment.