Assessment of Knowledge of Polish University Technical Students on Using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) – Survey Results

Abstract

Aim: The article presents the results of a survey, which assessed the knowledge of technical university studentson the use of AED (Automated External Defibrillator). The authors put forward two research hypotheses. The first one assumes that the respondents do not have sufficient knowledge about the use of AED. According to the second, the respondents assess their knowledge on using AED at a higher level than it actually is. Project and methods: The survey method was used to assess the knowledge about the location and proper use of the AED. Authors have conducted surveys with 133 respondents (42% women and 58% men) aged 20-24 (average 21.56 ± 0.95 years). Of all subjects, 91% had not previously performed any basic life support before. The questionnaire contained a number of questions that verify both the theoretical knowledge of the respondents and detailed practical knowledge regarding the proper use of the defibrillator. Results: The research results indicate that the level of knowledge about cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator (AED) among the surveyed students of technical universities is limited. As many as 92% of respondents declared that they know what a defibrillator is used, but only 5% of respondents actually know what defibrillation is. Only 23% of respondents claimed to know the location of the defibrillator at their university, but in fact only 7% of them were able to pinpoint it. As many as 87% of students were not familiar with the location of the defibrillator in their area of residence. Furthermore, only 32% of the respondents answered the question correctly when the defibrillator should be used. Conclusions: The results of the survey indicate an important need for education – not only in terms of general knowledge and skills related to CPR and AED, but especially in practical information about the location of the nearest AED in the workplace, as well as place of residence. Information on the AED location should be included in the first aid training program. It is also important to instruct the audience where such data can be obtained. The authors would like to emphasize that efforts to increase the level of knowledge of lay people are necessary to improve the effectiveness of CPR and AED, and thus the survival of people during sudden life-threatening situations.