Formación y simulación en escolares en técnicas de primeros auxiliosobstrucción de la vía aérea por cuerpo extraño

Abstract

The Kids Save Lives statement promotes the teaching of BLS content in schools (Schroeder et al), but so far, few studies have focused on the formation of schoolchildren in foreign body airway obstruction (Martinez-Isasi et al., Olasveengen et al.). Objective: To describe the acquisition of knowledge about the resolution of foreign body airway obstruction (FBAO) in 5th grade primary school children. Methods: A quasi-experimental simulation study was conducted involving a total of 38 5th grade primary school children (16 females and 22 males) who were trained and assessed in FBAO skills, of whom only 8 had previous first aid training. A 20-minute explanation and demonstration session was conducted, in which only a total of 8 students were able to perform the simulation of the choking algorithm with the Act+ Fast Children’s Yellow® device as a support material to practice the skills with a partner. One day after the training, participants were evaluated in an FBAO simulation scenario (with a victim simulating an FBAO). The assessment was conducted by competent investigators using a checklist specifically designed to address the variables involved in the resolution of an FBAO case based on current international guidelines. Results: The evaluation of the knowledge acquired by the schoolchildren during the FBAO simulation revealed that, according to the current guidelines, 55.5% correctly performed the entire sequence of action in the case of an FBAO. In the case of a complete FBAO, 78.9% performed some of the techniques explained for unblocking. 92.1% correctly delivered interscapular blows to the back and 71.1% correctly performed abdominal compressions. Conclusions: A brief and targeted training helps to train 5th grade primary school children to perform the recommended steps for the resolution of FBAO in a simulated patient. We believe that OVACE should be included in basic life support training programmes for schoolchildren