Assessment of Basic Medical Knowledge and Skills of Federal Road Safety Corps Officers on Pre-Hospital Trauma Care of Road Crash Victims in Southwest, Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study
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Abstract
Background
Prompt and efficient pre-hospital care enhances the survival and recovery of road traffic crash (RTC) victims. Often provided by individuals with basic medical skills, such as Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officers, such care can be life-saving making their knowledge and skills in prehospital care critical to victim survival. This study assesses the medical knowledge and skills of FRSC officers in delivering pre-hospital care to RTC victims.
Methods
A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among FRSC officers in Southwestern Nigeria, using convenience sampling and structured questionnaires. Data collected included sociodemographic details, training history, knowledge and skills of pre-hospital trauma care, and availability of emergency materials as well as equipment. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, Pearson’s chi-square, and Mann-Whitney U tests using IBM SPSS version 26.
Results
The study surveyed 137 participants (median age 38 years, 77% male, 43.1% with a university degree). Of these, 35% had over 10 years of service, while 13.9% had less than one year. Results showed that 56.2% had insufficient knowledge of prehospital care of crash victims, but 75.2% demonstrated basic trauma care skills. Officers with higher skills had a significantly higher median age (39 years) compared to those lacking skills (28 years, p = 0.018), and there was a positive correlation between years of service and pre-hospital care competence (p = 0.011).
Conclusion
Despite limited knowledge, most FRSC officers had experience and skills in pre-hospital trauma care. Skill level was linked to age, education, and experience, but not to knowledge or prior training. Access to equipment and ambulances supported effective victim transport. Regular hands-on training is essential to improve care quality and outcomes.
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