Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of First Aid Skills among Undergraduate Medical Students of Peshawar, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: First aid refers to the immediate care administered following injury or acute illness prior to the arrival of professional medical assistance, intended to preserve life and minimize complications. This study aimed to assess and compare the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) regarding first-aid skills among undergraduate medical students.

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted over six months (February–August 2023) involving 400 MBBS students from the third, fourth, and final years across two public and two private medical colleges in Peshawar. Data were collected via convenience sampling using a validated, self-administered structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS to determine frequencies and percentages.

Results: Findings were stratified by institution type. Regarding theoretical knowledge, 72.5% of public sector students provided correct responses compared to 72.0% from the private sector. A positive attitude toward first aid administration was observed in 91.6% of public sector students versus 89.5% of private sector students. However, practical proficiency was lower; only 55.7% of public sector students and 45.6% of private sector students demonstrated correct management of emergency scenarios.

Conclusion: While the majority of students exhibited adequate knowledge and a positive attitude toward first aid, practical application remains a significant gap. Approximately half of the respondents had never administered first aid, and proficiency in emergency management was suboptimal. These findings underscore the necessity of integrating comprehensive, hands-on first aid training programs into the medical curriculum.