THE IMPORTANCE OF INCLUDING FIRST AID COURSES WITHIN THE CURRICULUM OF FIRST-YEAR MEDICAL STUDENTS

Background: Medical emergencies are a global issue, with individuals of all ages and genders at risk of encountering accidents, burns, heart attacks, strokes, and more.Essential life skills such as wound management and cardiovascular resuscitation play a crucial role in lowering the incidence of casualties.The ability to provide first aid is vital, as it not only saves lives but also allows individuals to effectively manage patients until medical assistance arrives.However, the current medical curriculum in RGUHS does not include first aid as a stand-alone topic, raising the need for its inclusion in medical education.Methodology: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes towards first aid among medical students, as well as the necessity for introducing a first aid course for first-year students.A cross-sectional survey was conducted involving medical students, faculty, and the general public at Gulbarga Institute of Medical Sciences.Results: Results indicated that while knowledge of first aid principles and basic life support techniques among students was poor, there was a willingness to learn and incorporate first aid training as a mandatory subject.Teachers recognized the importance of early first aid training for students, although time constraints were a limiting factor in curriculum inclusion.The general public also expressed support for first aid training among medical students and believed in their ability to handle emergencies effectively.