Author: KADRI Adenike Koseganlola R.

Co-Authors:  SALAKO, Esther Omobolanle, OTUFALE, Taiwo Adenike, OLAOYE, Elizbeth Bolanle

Abstract

Cardiac arrest is a major global public health concern, accounting for approximately 15–20% of all deaths worldwide and contributing to significant cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) remains the cornerstone of emergency care for victims of cardiac arrest and related emergencies, as it maintains circulation to vital organs until advanced interventions are available. Despite its importance, gaps in CPR knowledge and practice persist, particularly in developing countries such as Nigeria, where nationwide training programmes are limited. This study assessed the knowledge and practice of CPR among health workers in Catholic Hospital Oluyoro and Jericho Specialist Hospital, Ibadan. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed with 126 respondents recruited through multistage sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed with SPSS version 25. Findings revealed that most respondents demonstrated strong knowledge of CPR fundamentals, including compression-ventilation ratios, chest compression techniques, and patient positioning. However, notable gaps were identified in advanced interventions such as defibrillation use, paediatric resuscitation techniques, and accurate compression depths for infants. Furthermore, although two-thirds of participants reported good practice, inconsistencies remained in applying correct procedures under varying circumstances. The chi-square analysis indicated no statistically significant relationship between knowledge and practice (p = 0.086), suggesting that factors such as confidence, frequency of retraining, and hands-on exposure may influence competence. The study concludes that while health workers possess substantial CPR knowledge, periodic, structured, and simulation-based training is essential to enhance practical application, reduce mortality, and improve outcomes in cardiac emergencies.

Keywords: Cardiac arrest, Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, Health workers, Knowledge, Practice, Emergency care,

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