KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS BASIC LIFE SUPPORT AMONG MEDICAL AND NURSING STUDENTS IN UNIVERSITI KUALA LUMPUR ROYAL COLLEGE OF MEDICINE PERAK

Abstract

Background: This study provides insight into the outcome of Basic life support (BLS) training in medical and nursing students through analysis of their level of knowledge and attitude towards BLS. It is aimed at serving as reference for future improvement in the training and exposure of BLS among the students. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study, using stratified random sampling. A structured questionnaire consisting of three parts - socio-demographics, knowledge and attitude on BLS, was used. Results: Medical students had a significantly higher knowledge score compared to nursing students. Female students had a significantly better attitude score compared to male students. Semester 5 nursing students showed a significantly better attitude than the semester 6 students. Some students (11%) felt reluctant to perform CPR, main reasons being fear of causing harm and lack of confidence. Conclusion: The knowledge and attitude of medical and nursing students towards BLS were found to be adequate but varied according to academic level of study. Early exposure with more practical training on BLS would improve the students’ knowledge, as well as perception. Thus, periodical reinforcement and refresher training courses on BLS are needed.