KNOWLEDGE ON FIRST AID MEASURES OF SNAKEBITE AMONG STUDENTS OF SELECTED HIGH SCHOOL IN KOZHIKODE.

Abstract

Snakebite is an injury caused by a snake. Children over 5 years are the most adventurous group, characterized by increased proximity to various types of accidents and emergencies as they try to explore the environment. All primary school children should be trained in the scientific knowledge of first aid procedures.  Imparting appropriate knowledge to school children on the prevention, control and management of common diseases and injuries will go a long way in reducing morbidity and mortality in the population of all ages and genders. So, any of the above training is undoubtedly a good and logical investment to the community.  The present study assessed the knowledge regarding first aid measures of snakebite among students of selected high school in Kozhikode using non experimental quantitative approach. Materials and Methods:  Quantitative descriptive approach is adopted in the present study. The present study was conducted in RK Mission higher secondary school, Kozhikode. Sample consist the students of RK Mission Higher Secondary School, who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The Non-Probability Convenience sample technique was adopted to select 60 students and data were collected through a structured questionnaire. After data collection an informational pamphlet was given to the sample. Results: This study show 5 % had good knowledge, 66.7% had average knowledge and 28.3% had poor knowledge on first aid measures of snakebite. There was significant association between knowledge regarding first aid measures of snake bite and selected sample characteristics such as religion (p value = 0.002), mother’s education (p value = 0.025), father’s occupation ( p value = 0.040)  at 0.05 level. Conclusion: Providing information regarding first aid measures of snakebite is needed to improve the knowledge and to apply it in their day to day life.