Implementation of Nigeria's national surgical plan: building basic life support capacity to strengthen safe surgical care

TL;DR

This paper examines how Basic Life Support training in Nigeria improves emergency preparedness and surgical care outcomes.

Contribution

The study evaluates BLS training implementation in Nigeria's surgical plan and provides actionable recommendations for improvement.

Findings

All 220 participants passed post-training written and skills assessments.

Participants reported improved understanding of team dynamics and high-quality CPR.

Recommendations include integrating BLS into postgraduate curricula and expanding training sessions.

Abstract

In many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), including Nigeria, the burden of surgical conditions significantly contributes to morbidity and mortality rates. Nigeria developed the National Surgical, Obstetrics, Anesthesia, and Nursing Plan (NSOANP) to address gaps in surgical care delivery and improve health outcomes. The success of this plan depends on the preparedness and capacity of healthcare workers, particularly in emergency scenarios. Basic Life Support (BLS) training is essential to improving emergency preparedness and health outcomes.

This is a retrospective review of 220 participants undergoing a BLS training programme deployed as part of implementation of Nigeria's NSOANP. Trainings were conducted at six locations representing Nigeria's geopolitical zones. Healthcare professionals, including nurses and physicians from specialized cleft care centers and public tertiary hospitals, participated. Post-training evaluations included multiple-choice and skills tests. A qualitative feedback survey assessed participants' self-perception of their skills.

The participants included 151 males (68.6%) and 69 females (31.4%). Most participants were specialist physicians (48.2%) and physician trainees (37.7%). All 220 participants passed the post-test written and skills assessments. Feedback indicated improved understanding of team dynamics and high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Key recommendations included providing manual defibrillators, incorporating pre-tests, retaining provider manuals, integrating BLS training into postgraduate curricula, and expanding training sessions.

Integrating BLS training into the NSOANP implementation will improve emergency preparedness and competence among healthcare providers. This would potentially improve surgical outcomes. Participants' recommendations offer a roadmap for future improvements. Continued investment in BLS training is essential for building a responsive emergency healthcare system in Nigeria.

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