Basic life support knowledge, Attitude and associated factors among medical school interns in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Basic Life Support (BLS) is a critical life-saving skill that is essential and expected for every healthcare professional, particularly medical interns who are often the first responders in emergencies. This study aimed to assess the level of BLS knowledge, attitudes, and associated factors among medical school interns in Addis Ababa. Objective: To assess the status of basic life support knowledge, attitude and associated factors among medical interns in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 333 interns found working in different hospitals in Addis Ababa from December 2024 to February 2025. Data was collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaires. Knowledge and attitude scores were then calculated, and logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with BLS knowledge and attitudes. Results: The majority of interns (90.1%) reported receiving Basic Life Support (BLS) training, but only 19.8% indicated a good understanding of BLS. Factors found to be significantly associated with good BLS knowledge included being female (AOR=2.50, 95% CI: 1.25-4.98), having recent BLS training (AOR=13.51, 95% CI: 1.49-122.01), real-time BLS experience during internship (AOR=3.75, 95% CI: 1.22-11.23) and fewer number of internship rotations (AOR=7.65, 95% CI: 2.11-27.73 and Two: AOR= 5.45, 95% CI: 1.36-21.75). A positive attitude towards BLS was reported by 62.2% of interns, with the self-rated ability to deliver effective BLS being the most significant predictor of a positive attitude (AOR=1.68, 95% CI: 0.68-1.95). Conclusion: Despite widespread BLS training among interns, persistent knowledge and skill gaps call for more frequent, practical refreshers to boost emergency preparedness and effective response. Key words- Basic Life Support (BLS), Medical Interns, Knowledge, Attitude, Training