Community First-aid Knowledge of Accidents: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study in Jakarta, Indonesia

Abstract

Background. First-aid is the effort to help and temporarily care for accident victims before receiving further assistance. Providing quick and appropriate aid to victims prevent their condition from worsening.

Objectives. This study aims to explore the knowledge and experiences of the heads of neighborhood units (RWs) of first-aid in accidents in Cempaka Putih Tengah Subdistrict Jakarta, Indonesia.

Methods. This is a qualitative research with a phenomenological design that aims to explore the community's knowledge of first-aid in greater depth. Data collection was carried out through in-depth interviews and observations. The study had six participants which were selected using purposive sampling technique. All participants are male, based on the understanding that men often serve as heads of households and play a crucial role within their families or communities; all participated in the Focus Group Discussion (FGD). The data analysis was conducted using categorization and thematic analysis, and was manually analyzed using the Collaizi method.

Results. This study identified three main themes regarding the public's knowledge and experience in providing first-aid during accidents: 1) limited public knowledge of effective first-aid actions in accident situations; 2) lack of practical experience in providing first-aid, leading to panic and confusion; and 3) limited understanding of accident prevention, which increases the risk of injury in the surrounding environment.

Conclusion. The limited knowledge and practical experience among the public, despite some having attended first-aid training, leads to unpreparedness and panic when faced with accidents. Additionally, the limited understanding of accident prevention contributes to an increased risk of injury in the surrounding environment. Therefore, it is crucial to provide more comprehensive training, including practical simulations, to improve the public’s knowledge and skills in managing and preventing accidents.