Objective: To determine the level of theoretical and practical knowledge of Basic Life Support (BLS) among medical students
Methodology: This cross sectional, quantitative study was conducted in March 2020. Self-Structured Questionnaire was distributed among 300 students, 150 from 1st year and 150 from 2nd year. Data were analysed using SPSS 22. Chi Square test was employed.
Results: Only 13 (4%) students had received formal BLS training. Significant relation between taking previous score of BLS and theoretical and practical knowledge of BLS was found (p=0.000088). Majority (189) responded that BLS should be made part of medical college curriculum. 194 participants (64%) had moderate knowledge of both theoretical and practical aspects of BLS, 75-80% students of both 1st and 2nd year had only moderate knowledge. It was also found that male students had more practical knowledge than females (not statistically significant p=0.6), but both had almost the same proficiency in theoretical knowledge.
Conclusion: The level of knowledge of BLS among the students was not up to the mark, and there is a dire need to include BLS training in the medical colleges’ curriculum.
Key words: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, medical students, knowledge, BLS.
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