Assessing the Level of Knowledge Regarding Basic Life Support in Undergraduate Nursing Students at Private Colleges of Nursing at Peshawar, Pakistan

Abstract

This study looks at the level of knowledge about Basic Life Support (BLS) among undergraduate nursing students at private colleges in Peshawar, Pakistan. BLS is a crucial skill for healthcare workers, especially in emergency situations where quick action can make a life-or-death difference. The goal of this research is to assess how prepared nursing students are to perform BLS and to pinpoint areas where their training could be improved. To gather data, we used a descriptive cross-sectional survey design with 218 fourth- year nursing students who were selected through convenience sampling. The study was conducted in private nursing colleges in Peshawar. The duration of the study was from August to December. Undergraduate nursing students were included in the study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information, which included questions about participants‟ demographics, general knowledge of BLS, and more specific details about emergency medical procedures. The study also followed ethical guidelines, ensuring confidentiality and informed consent from all participants. The results showed a wide range of knowledge among students regarding BLS. While many students had a good grasp of basic concepts like the importance of early defibrillation and rescue breathing techniques, there were notable gaps in their understanding of critical areas, such as the correct compression-to-ventilation ratio for adults and recognizing the signs of cardiac arrest. Statistical analysis showed that prior training and clinical experience had a positive impact on their BLS competency. However, the overall results were concerning, with none of the students reaching an "excellent" level, and only a few falling into the "good" category.