Evaluation of University Students’ Knowledge Levels Regarding Basic First Aid and Basic Life Support

Background: Basic first aid and basic life support (BLS) constitute essential life-saving interventions in cases of sudden illness and trauma. Although university students are frequently exposed to emergency situations through social and academic activities, their knowledge levels regarding first aid and BLS remain insufficiently investigated. This study aimed to evaluate university students’ knowledge levels regarding basic first aid and BLS.Methods: This nationwide, multi-university, cross-sectional analytical survey included 852 students enrolled in multiple universities and faculties across Türkiye. Data were collected using a structured online questionnaire. Knowledge was assessed using a 28-item questionnaire covering basic first aid and BLS topics. Correct answers were scored as +1, incorrect answers as −1, and “I do not know” responses as 0. Statistical analyses were performed using the Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis H tests.Results: The mean knowledge score of the participants was 13.92 ± 6.56. Medical school students achieved significantly higher scores compared with students from health sciences and non-health-related faculties (p