Abstract:
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are crucial for immediate medical assistance during life-threatening situations. However, insufficient public awareness about EMS services can impede their effectiveness. This study aimed to assess EMS knowledge and trust among the population of Eastern Saudi Arabia while identifying factors contributing to low awareness. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Eastern Saudi Arabia from September 2022 to September 2023. The study included participants aged 18 to 60 from diverse backgrounds. Using a convenience sampling approach, data was collected using a validated questionnaire covering demographics, hypothetical scenarios, EMS knowledge, and trust in EMS. We conducted the Chi-square tests and logistic regression using Jamovi software, with significance levels set at p < 0.05. Our study yielded 435 participants; 55% were males. Gender-based analysis showed significant differences in responses regarding first aid provision and EMS services (P < 0.001). Expectations for EMS response times also varied by gender (P = 0.01). Knowledge-based analysis revealed that age and education significantly influenced EMS knowledge (P < 0.001). Respondents with EMS knowledge were more likely to know how to provide first aid, understand the importance of emergency number 112, and trust EMS (P < 0.001). Trust-based analysis showed age and education-related differences in EMS trust (P < 0.001). Respondents with EMS knowledge and awareness of emergency numbers displayed higher trust in EMS (P < 0.001). This study underscores the need for enhanced public awareness of EMS services in Eastern Saudi Arabia. Age, education, and gender emerged as critical factors affecting EMS knowledge and trust. Bridging this awareness gap necessitates tailored educational campaigns and continuous monitoring. Policymakers should prioritise EMS awareness within broader healthcare strategies, contributing to improved public health outcomes and community well-being.
摘要:
紧急医疗服务(EMS)对于在危及生命的情况下立即提供医疗援助至关重要。然而,公众对EMS服务的认识不足会阻碍其有效性。这项研究旨在评估沙特阿拉伯东部人口中的EMS知识和信任,同时确定导致意识低下的因素。2022年9月至2023年9月在沙特阿拉伯东部进行了一项横断面研究。该研究包括来自不同背景的18至60岁的参与者。使用一种方便的抽样方法,数据是使用经过验证的涵盖人口统计的问卷收集的,假设场景,EMS知识,信任EMS。我们使用Jamovi软件进行了卡方检验和逻辑回归,显著性水平设置为p<0.05。我们的研究吸引了435名参与者;55%是男性。基于性别的分析显示,在急救和EMS服务方面的反应存在显着差异(P<0.001)。对EMS响应时间的期望也因性别而异(P=0.01)。基于知识的分析显示,年龄和受教育程度显著影响EMS知识(P<0.001)。有EMS知识的受访者更有可能知道如何提供急救,了解急救电话112的重要性,并信任EMS(P<0.001)。基于信任的分析显示,EMS信任的年龄和教育相关差异(P<0.001)。具有EMS知识和紧急号码意识的受访者对EMS的信任度更高(P<0.001)。这项研究强调了在沙特阿拉伯东部提高公众对EMS服务意识的必要性。年龄,教育,和性别成为影响EMS知识和信任的关键因素。弥合这一认识差距需要有针对性的教育运动和持续监测。政策制定者应在更广泛的医疗保健战略中优先考虑EMS意识,有助于改善公共卫生结果和社区福祉。