INTRODUCTION

Emergency care can potentially address half of deaths and one-third of disability in low-and-middle income countries. First Aid (FA) is at the core of out-of-hospital emergency care and is crucial to empower laypersons to preserve life, alleviate suffering and improve emergency response and outcomes. This study aimed to gauge FA awareness, the attitude and perceived knowledge in households in the low socioeconomic setting of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

METHODS

We undertook a cross-sectional community-based household survey in twelve health zones in Kinshasa. A three-stage randomised cluster sampling was used to identify 1217 households. The head of each household or an adult representative answered on behalf of himself/herself and the household. The primary outcome was FA awareness, attitude and perceived knowledge.

RESULTS

Most households had a poor socio-economic background, with 70.0% living on <US$100 per person per month. Most respondents received formal education (98.4%), with 37.6% reaching the tertiary level. The majority (77.6%) believed that an emergency requiring FA was likely to happen in their household. There was a noticeable contrast between awareness (90.0% asserted that FA knowledge is a necessity) and positive attitude regarding FA (91.3% believed that FA increases wellbeing and survival) on one hand, and the insignificant rate of FA training (0.2%) on the other. Most (83.6%) acknowledged they did not think they had the required basic FA knowledge and skills for five selected common life-threatening emergencies. The age, area of residence and level of education of participants played a variable role regarding FA awareness, attitude and knowledge.

CONCLUSION

Most participants reported inadequate knowledge of FA despite awareness and a positive attitude. Context-appropriate training programs are greatly needed to empower Kinshasa's communities and equip them with lifesaving skills.