The Impact of an Educational Training Program on Basic Life Support and First Aid to Manage Risk Among Mechanical Engineering Students at Sudan University

Background: Mechanical engineering students spend several hours in primitive workshops and laboratories for training as part of their academic curriculum; they are exposed to various types of hazards such as machines, flammable materials, and other dangers. These machines are one of the causes of amputation, crushing, and broken bones among these students. This study aims to explore how training in first aid (FA) and basic life support (BLS) helps mechanical engineering students at Sudan University of Sciences and Technology manage risks in such situations.
Methods: The current study had a quasi-experimental design, and 100 students were chosen through stratified systematic random sampling. Data were gathered via questionnaire and observational checklist, whose content validity and reliability were confirmed (r = 0.87 and r = 0.82, respectively). Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 for descriptive and inferential statistics. The program was delivered through a series of 13 lectures conducted over a total of 65 hr.
Results: All tests had a maximum mean knowledge score of 50 points. At the pretest, students’ overall knowledge of FA and BLS was low (13.82), however, it improved to 49.87 and 48.77 at posttest one and posttest two, respectively, after the intervention. Statistically significant differences were seen between pre- and posttest one (P = 0.000) and between pre- and post-late (P = 0.000). In the pretest, the total proportion of the students’ practices related to FA and BLS was low (12.87%). However, when the program was implemented, the total percentage of practices increased in posttest one (95.65%) and posttest two (95.21%). This indicates the effectiveness of training programs.
Conclusion: Students lacked knowledge and practice in FA and BLS before the intervention. The training helped enhance their skills. FA and BLS programs should be included in university curricula to help students manage risks in workshops and laboratories.