Attitudes of pharmacists to the issue of applying basic first-aid.

The most frequently mentioned causes of death and disability include blood circulation system diseases, tumors and injuries. The decision to apply immediate resuscitation actions often influence the chances of the victim's survival. It is estimated that approximately 18 million citizens of Poland have been trained in the field of basic first-aid procedures. The aim of the paper was to get to know the opinions of the employees of pharmacies with a degree in pharmacy about the issue of applying basic first-aid and their knowledge of basic life support. The survey was carried out by means of a questionnaire which was mailed to the pharmacies in the area of the Lublin region, excluding the city of Lublin. 250 questionnaires were sent and 106 were sent back and filled in properly. The return rate of the questionnaires was estimated at 42.4%. Pharmacists feel they are obliged to know the rules of applying first-aid better than other social groups, and claim they should join the rescue activities in case of emergency. The respondents show willingness to participate in first-aid trainings as long as they are free. A high percentage of the respondents assess their level of knowledge in the field of emergency actions as unsatisfactory. The knowledge of resuscitation techniques is insufficient--identification of circulatory arrest, technique of indirect cardiac massage and artificial respiration all seem to cause difficulties. The pharmacists under survey would be glad to get updated guidelines concerning basic rules of behaviour in emergency.