A comparison of first aid knowledge levels among students of physical education and sports teaching and coaching departments at Munzur University

At any moment in our lives, we may encounter unexpected accidents and injuries. In such situations, first aid knowledge is of vital importance. Correct and timely intervention can save lives, prevent permanent disabilities, and expedite the recovery process. Especially in sports environments, the risk of injury is quite high. Therefore, first aid education is of critical importance for physical education teachers, coaches, and athletes. The aim of the study conducted in light of this information is to compare the first aid knowledge levels of physical education teacher candidates and coach candidates. The population of the research consists of students studying in the Department of Physical Education and Sports Teaching and the Department of Coaching Education at Munzur University's Faculty of Sports Sciences, while the sample consists of 76 physical education and sports teaching candidates and 82 coaching education students, totaling 158 participants, reaching 73.8% of the research population. Of the participants, 109 are male and 49 are female. The students participating in the research were administered a four-item personal information form, a five-item first aid experience form, and a total of 34-item first aid knowledge questionnaire created by obtaining expert opinions from Öztürk. The obtained data were transferred to the SPSS (v26) program, and percentage frequency values of the variables determined in the study were determined. The Chi-square test was applied to measure whether there was a difference between two or more groups. A significance level of p <0.05 was accepted to detect differences between groups. In this context, significant differences in favor of the coaching education department were found in terms of whether first aid training was received and knowing how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation and artificial respiration. However, considering the theoretical knowledge questions related to first aid (23 questions) in the administered questionnaire, it was observed that physical education and sports teaching department students had higher correct answer rates in 21 of them. Among these, when the correct answers to questions 10, 12, 14, 21, 23, and 26 were examined, a significant difference in favor of the physical education and sports teaching department was determined. In conclusion, it was found that the first aid knowledge level of physical education and sports teacher candidates and coach candidates is at an average level, and in some first aid topics, it is inadequate. Generally, when the percentages of correct answers were examined, it was observed that the first aid knowledge levels were at a low level. To improve the knowledge level, it is recommended to increase the hours of first aid training and practical education.