الفهرس 
IntroductionOnly 14 pages are availabe for public view
 |  | from | 185 |  |  |
| | | from | 185 | | |
Abstract
Introduction: First aid and basic life support (FA/BLS) training is essential to provide medical students with knowledge and skills. However knowledge and skills deteriorate within a few months following training. Several modalities including self-learning videos have been introduced to counter the knowledge and skill loss.
Objectives: This study aimed to measure the base line knowledge and perceptions regarding FA/BLS among pre-clinical medical students at Ain Shams University. It also aimed to determine the impact of a training course followed by monthly video messages on the acquisition and retention of knowledge, skills and self-confidence.
Methods: A baseline survey was posted online for pre-clinical medical students from 2nd to 4th grades to which 372 responded. Respondents were invited to attend a 2 day training course and 132 attended and completed the training. Those were randomized into 2 groups; one group (Study group) was provided with monthly video messages for a year following training. The other group (Control group) was not sent any messages. Students’ knowledge, attitude and self-confidence were tested 3 months and 12 months post training. An adult Basic life support skill test was held 12 months after training.
Results: Baseline survey results have shown that students had inadequate FA/BLS knowledge as the mean knowledge score was 16.64±3.97 out of a maximum of 32. Knowledge has improved significantly immediately after training (mean=30.03±1.59 P < 0.001) and 92.4% have successfully passed adult BLS practical assessment at first attempt. Knowledge has deteriorated significantly three months after training. After 12 months only 5.7% of students passed the adult BLS practical assessment. Sending monthly video messages after training did not significantly affect knowledge and skill scores. Students in the study group showed slightly better attitude and self-confidence in FA skills 3 months after training.
Conclusion: Training has proved to be effective in providing students with adequate FA/BLS knowledge and skills, but unfortunately both deteriorate as rapidly as 3 months following training. Sending monthly video messages after training is not sufficient to slow knowledge and skill decline, although they might boost attitude and self-confidence in the short term.
Recommendations: First aid and Basic life support training should be instated in medical curriculum during the early years of medical education. Training should be followed by refresher class training and testing within three months of initial training.