CL-05: PRISA (PRIMERA RESPUESTA INICIADA PARA LA SEGURIDAD DE ACCIDENTADOS) IN SANTA CRUZ, BOLIVIA: A PILOT STUDY
Erica Ludi, MD1, Andrea Lazcano, BS2, Pablo Peñaranda, MD3, Leah Tatebe, MD4, Esteban Foianini, MD5, Mamta Swaroop, MD1; 1Northwestern University, 2Universidad Autónoma Gabriel René Moren, 3Servicio Departamento de Salud Santa Cruz, 4Northwestern Univerity, 5Clinica Foianini
Background: Prehospital trauma mortality approaches 50% in resource-poor environments. In Santa Cruz, Bolivia, trauma accounts for eight of the top twenty causes of prehospital deaths. First responder courses reduce prehospital mortality by up to 25% in trauma. We hypothesize participant confidence and knowledge will increase by implementing a trauma first responder course for lay persons
Methods: A four-hour trauma first responder course, with didactic and practical components, was developed, covering: scene and personal safety, bleeding control, and pelvic binding. Course assessments include baseline demographic survey, an 18-question pre- and post-knowledge exam, and a course evaluation. Paired Sample T-tests were performed to determine differences in pre- and post-knowledge, and confidence assessments.
Results: In three pilot courses, 27 participants, with an average age of 28.9 years (range: 16-52 years), of whom 63% (17/27) were female, completed the assessments. Confidence levels on a 5-point scale for providing trauma first aid increased from 3.65 to 4.50 (p = 0.007). Knowledge assessment scores increased from 33% to 59% on average (p < 0.001).
Conclusions: PRISA significantly increased participant knowledge and confidence levels. Empowering laypersons to provide on-scene care may improve patient outcomes. Future directions include wider distribution and assessment of impact on prehospital mortality.