ASSESS THE KNOWLEDGE REGARDING CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITAION AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

Abstract

Background: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a lifesaving emergency procedure used to restore breathing and circulation during cardiac arrest. Adequate knowledge and awareness of CPR among nursing students are essential to improve patient survival rates and ensure timely emergency care. This study was conducted to assess the level of knowledge regarding CPR among nursing students.

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Peoples University of Medical and Health Sciences for Women (PUMHSW), Nawabshah (New Campus). A total of 280 undergraduate students from different academic programs, including BS Nursing, DPT, Pharm-D, and BSPH, were selected using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire designed to assess participants’ knowledge regarding cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The collected data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were used, and results were presented in the form of tables and figures.

Results: The findings revealed that the majority of participants had a moderate level of knowledge regarding CPR. More than half of the students correctly identified key components of CPR, including the correct site of chest compression, compression depth, compression rate, and the compression-to-ventilation ratio. However, gaps were observed in knowledge related to the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and emergency response sequence. Students who had previous exposure to CPR training demonstrated better knowledge compared to those without training.

Conclusion: The study concludes that although undergraduate students possess basic knowledge of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, significant gaps still exist, particularly in practical application and AED usage. Regular CPR training programs, hands-on practice sessions, and inclusion of CPR certification in undergraduate curricula are recommended to enhance knowledge, skills, and preparedness for emergency situations.