Implementation and evaluation of a stop the bleed program at a college of pharmacy

Abstract Introduction/hypothesis The Stop the Bleed™ Coalition training program certifies individuals to respond to major bleeding events. This study aimed to evaluate the implementation of a Stop the Bleed™ program at a college of pharmacy and assess its effectiveness in teaching bleeding control techniques to faculty and staff. Methods College of pharmacy faculty and staff who attended the Stop the Bleed™ training were surveyed pre‐ and post‐course. The surveys assessed demographics, bleeding control knowledge, and participant perceptions on responding to major bleeding incidents. Responses on participants' attitudes or opinions were measured using a five‐point Likert scale. Pre‐ and post‐survey answers were compared to evaluate the impact of training. Results Eighty faculty and staff were trained. Pre‐ and post‐survey response rates were 83.75% (67/80) and 71.25% (57/80), respectively. Before the course, 77% (44/57) of participants were unaware of the program. Based on a five‐question assessment, participants' knowledge on hemostasis improved post‐course (mean score: 3.96 ± 0.93 vs. 4.37 ± 0.67; p = 0.006). In addition, participants comfort with tourniquet use increased (median [interquartile range (IQR)]: 3 [2, 3] vs. 4 [4, 5]; p < 0.00001) and they felt more competent in their ability to stop bleeding (median [IQR]: 3 [2, 4] vs. 5 [4, 5; p < 0.00001]). Finally, 84% (48/57) of participants who completed the post‐survey were extremely satisfied with the training. Conclusions A Stop the Bleed™ course taught by critical care pharmacist faculty improved faculty and staff's knowledge, awareness, and confidence in handling bleeding events.