Abstract Sun1304: TRAINING IN BASIC LIFE SUPPORT AND PEDIATRIC EMERGENCIES FOR EDUCATORS: EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL TRAINING

Abstract

Introduction: Choking and drowning are frequent causes of death in children, as they can quickly lead to cardiorespiratory arrest (CRA) in out-of-hospital settings. The American Heart Association (AHA) defines CRA as the sudden cessation of cardiac mechanical activity, which can lead to death or irreversible damage if not treated promptly. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), when performed quickly and effectively, significantly increases the chances of survival. In countries like Brazil (BR), the CRA recognition rate is around 80%, but only 20% of cases result in appropriate action. Training laypeople (especially educators) in Basic Life Support (BLS) is crucial. “Lei Lucas” (Lucas Law) (Brazilian Law No. 13.722/2018) mandates first aid training for school staff. This project aims to train public school teachers in the interior of São Paulo state (BR) in BLS techniques, including CPR and emergency responses to pediatric situations such as choking, drowning, burns, and venomous bites. Activities will follow AHA guidelines and include theoretical classes and hands-on practice using manikins. Objectives: To train educators to recognize and act in the event of CRA, to teach choking relief techniques, to guide initial actions in pediatric emergencies, and to evaluate training effectiveness through questionnaires applied before and after training. Methodology: The study was conducted in municipal public schools with 461 lay teachers, aged over 18, starting in 2024. Data were collected via questionnaires applied immediately after practice, and training took place during pedagogical work hours for teachers, a space for improving abilities. The project aims not only to comply with legislation but also to serve as a model for other municipalities. Results: After training, the number of professionals who felt confident practicing increased from 9.8% to 32%. Additionally, correct responses regarding BLS procedures rose from 73% to 97%. Before training, 90.5% of teachers felt unprepared to handle an emergency, and only 43.6% had previously practiced CPR and choking maneuvers. After the course, 85.7% reported feeling confident to act. Conclusions: Implementing Lucas Law through this project has proven to be crucial to ensuring community safety in urgent scenarios. The initiative demonstrated to be an effective model for spreading BLS practices among laypeople worldwide.