 |
| UMM Nursing Lecturer Indah Dwi Pratiwi conducted research on the effect of Basic Life Support (BLS) training in increasing the knowledge of high school students (Photo: Special) |
Cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of sudden death worldwide, including in Indonesia. This condition requires prompt and appropriate treatment to save lives. This awareness led Nursing Lecturer Indah Dwi Pratiwi from the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) to conduct research in January on the effect of Basic Life Support (BLS) training in increasing the knowledge of high school students.
"The responsibility of providing first aid does not rest solely with medical personnel, but also with ordinary people, including students. Knowledge of Basic Life Support (BLS) is crucial in handling cardiac arrest cases. With proper training, high school students can take the lead in providing first aid within their communities," she explained.
Read more : FISIP UMM Students Learn About the Dangers of Money Politics
She explained that cardiac arrest is a serious medical condition that occurs suddenly and requires immediate intervention to prevent death or permanent disability. Global data shows that most cases of cardiac arrest occur outside of hospitals, where access to professional medical assistance is often delayed. Therefore, community involvement, including that of high school students, is crucial.
"A quick initial assessment and a correct response from a bystander can make the difference between life and death for a victim. By training high school students, we not only enhance their knowledge but also strengthen the overall preparedness of the community," she added.
This study employed a quantitative quasi-experimental design with a cross-sectional approach to assess the effectiveness of BLS training in improving the knowledge of high school students. A total of 32 students participated as respondents, selected through a total sampling technique, where all students meeting the study criteria were included.
The training covered both theoretical and practical materials related to Basic Life Support, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), and other relevant steps in responding to cardiac arrest. Before the training, students took a pre-test to assess their initial knowledge level. After the training, they were tested again with a post-test to measure the effectiveness of the training.
The results showed that the BLS training significantly improved high school students' knowledge of emergency measures for managing cardiac arrest. Before the training, the average knowledge score was 5.8, indicating a limited understanding. However, after the training, the average score increased to 7.5. Data analysis confirmed that this change was statistically significant.
Indah believes that this training not only enhances students' individual knowledge but also has a positive social impact. The students who received the training now have the confidence to act quickly in emergency situations, whether at school, at home, or in other public places. "We need to integrate BLS training into the school curriculum. This is a long-term investment in creating a more caring and prepared society," she emphasized.
According to one of the trainees, Reza, a student at SMA Negeri 2 Malang, he previously did not know what to do in the event of a cardiac arrest. After this training, he feels more prepared and confident to assist in an emergency situation. (*/wil/mrh)
