Assessing Burn First-Aid Knowledge and Information Sources Among Burn Caregivers in Rwanda

BACKGROUND: Burn injuries are a significant public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study evaluated burn first-aid knowledge and information sources among caregivers at Kigali University Teaching Hospital (CHUK) in Rwanda. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of 75 caregivers was conducted from October 2023 to April 2024. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire addressing demographics, first aid knowledge, and information sources. Knowledge was assessed using a 10-question test, scored from 0 to 10. Scores were categorized as poor (<5), intermediate (5–7), or good (>7). Statistical analyses were performed using JMP (JMP Statistical Discovery LLC, Cary, NC, USA). RESULTS: Caregivers had a median age of 33 years (IQR: 27–43); 80% were female, and 60% were married. Knowledge scores averaged 5.36 (standard deviation [SD] 1.6), with 67% showing intermediate knowledge, 25% poor, and 8% good. Friends and family were the main sources of information (95%), with minimal input from healthcare providers (8%). Misconceptions, such as using sugar and cooking oil for burns, were common. Although 93% lacked formal training, 96% were willing to learn, favoring books (69%) and classroom training (39%). Rural caregivers had better knowledge of fire escape strategies (58%, p = 0.03), and females excelled in managing burn blisters (85%, p = 0.03). CONCLUSION: Significant gaps in burn first-aid knowledge exist among caregivers at the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali. Reliance on informal sources and misconceptions persists. Targeted, evidence-based educational programs are essential to improve knowledge and practice.