[First aid measures by bystanders at the place of accident. A prospective, epidemiologic study in the Vienna area]

Abstract

The object of this prospective, epidemiological study was to determine whether bystanders provided necessary first aid measures in the prehospital trauma setting, whether they performed these measures correctly, and whether the level of first aid training affected the quality of first aid measures performed. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire, which was filled out between March and July 2000 for all cases attended to by the Vienna Ambulance Service. A total of 2812 cases were documented. The most frequent causes of trauma were falls from heights less than 1 meter (50%) and traffic accidents (17%). The most frequent injuries were injuries to the extremities (59%) and head and traumatic brain injuries (42%). Most patients were "moderately" or "severely" injured (69% and 29%, respectively), but life-threatening injuries were rare (2%). Bystanders were present in 57% of the cases. The most frequently required first aid measures were "application of a dressing" and "positioning" of the patient. "Control of haemorrhage", "ensuring accident site safety" and "extrication" of the patient were less frequently required. "Clearing of the airway", "precautions against hypothermia" and cardio-pulmonary resuscitation were very rarely required. Bystanders were most frequently policemen, relatives or friends of the patient, and strangers. The vast majority of bystanders had no training in first aid or had only attended the first aid course required to attain a driving license. We found a clear relationship between the level of first aid training and the quality of first aid measures provided. It would be advisable to offer an increased amount of refresher courses in first aid to improve bystander trauma care.