The Effect of the Federation of Islamic Medical Associations (FIMA) Basic Life Support (BLS) training on Community Knowledge, Confidence, and Willingness to perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and use of Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

Abstract

Objectives: Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is a prevalent medical emergency, where bystander CPR can significantly improve survival rates. To address this, FIMA encouraged its Islamic Medical Associations (IMAs) to conduct lifesaver courses offering Basic Life Support (BLS) training in mosques globally. This study evaluated the impact of IMA Malaysia’s program on participants’ knowledge, confidence, and willingness to perform CPR and use AEDs. Methods: A pre-post study assessed the effectiveness of FIMA Lifesaver BLS training at Putra Mosque, Putrajaya. The training included adult and paediatric CPR and choking resuscitation through demonstrations and hands-on practice. A validated 36-item questionnaire measured participants’ knowledge and willingness to perform CPR and use AEDs before and after the training. Data were analyzed using independent T-tests. Results: Of the 187 participants, 90 completed both pre- and post-tests. Most participants were female (78.1% pre-test, 80% post-test). Significant improvements in CPR and AED knowledge were observed, with scores increasing from 9.43 ± 3.11 to 12.54 ± 2.15 (p < 0.001). Positive changes in AED perception (16.37 ± 3.07 to 17.49 ± 2.62, p = 0.015) and CPR/AED importance (17.96 ± 3.22 to 18.66 ± 2.66, p = 0.011) were noted. Self-reported CPR efficacy and willingness to act increased significantly (p < 0.001), while concerns about injuring victims during CPR decreased (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The FIMA Lifesaver BLS program by IMA Malaysia effectively improved participants’ knowledge, confidence, and willingness to perform CPR and use AEDs.

International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Supplementary Issue 01: 2025 Page: S40