Comparison of basic life support training provided by three different methods: An interventional study

Objective: This study was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of Basic Life Support training of university students using three different methods (face-to-face, synchronous distance, and asynchronous distance). Material and Methods: This research; As a randomised controlled experimental study based on a prospective pre-test-post-test model, it was conducted with 290 first grade students in the academic year 2021-2022 at İzmir Tınaztepe University Vocational School of Health Services, between September 2021 and May 2022. The research groups were divided into 100 groups for face-to-face teaching, 94 groups for synchronous distance teaching, and 96 groups for asynchronous distance teaching by randomization after the pretest on knowledge level. Data were collected using the introductory form, BLS knowledge assessment form, and BLS application assessment form. Descriptive statistics, chi-square, ANOVA, and correlation analyses were used to analyse the data. Results: Of the 290 students who participated in the study, 223 were female and 67 were male. It was found that the knowledge and application levels of the students in the face-to-face education group was higher than in the distance education group. When comparing within the distance education groups, it was found that the level of knowledge and application of CPR was higher in the synchronous group than in the asynchronous group. It was determined that the level of knowledge and application at follow-up decreased over time in all groups after BLS training. Conclusion: In this study, it was concluded that there was a difference between the knowledge and application levels of BLS instruction conducted with face-to-face instruction, synchronous distance learning, and asynchronous distance learning methods. Similar to this study on the BLS training program, it is recommended to conduct research in different groups in a large population and sample, and to create community-based social responsibility projects by supporting institutions and organizations. Keywords: Life support, distance education, universities, students