Effectiveness of Simulation-Based Training in Enhancing BLS Knowledge and Skill Competency among Physiotherapy Students: An OSCE-Based Assessment

Dr. Javed Ashraf Syed, Kavita Chandrakar

Abstract: Background: Basic Life Support (BLS) is a critical skill for healthcare professionals, but there are still gaps in both knowledge and hands-on competency among physiotherapy students. Pairing objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) with simulation-based training provides a potential technique for skill development and evaluation. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of simulation-based training in enhancing knowledge and skill competency in BLS among Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT) students, using OSCE as an objective assessment tool. Methods: A quantitative, pre-experimental one-group pre-test post-test design was employed. A total of 93 BPT students were selected via convenient sampling at Vydehi Advanced Simulation Academy, Bangalore. Participants completed a structured knowledge questionnaire before and after simulation-based training. Post-training, BLS skills were assessed using an OSCE checklist encompassing components such as scene safety, compressions, ventilations, and AED usage. Paired t-test was used for statistical analysis. Results: Post-training, there was a significant increase in knowledge scores (pre-test mean = 6.66, post-test mean = 8.23; t = 5.29, p < 0.01). Skill assessment showed excellent competency in compressions (100%) and AED usage (100%), while 96% performed well in ventilations and 87% in scene safety. The data demonstrated a marked improvement in both cognitive understanding and hands-on skill performance after simulation-based training. Conclusion: Simulation-based training significantly improves BLS knowledge and skill competency among physiotherapy students. OSCE proved to be an effective and objective method for post-training skill evaluation. Integration of simulation and OSCE into physiotherapy curricula is recommended to foster clinical readiness and confidence in emergency response scenarios.

Keywords: Simulation-based training, BLS, OSCE, Physiotherapy, Clinical competency, Skill assessment, VASA

How to Cite?: Dr. Javed Ashraf Syed, Kavita Chandrakar, "Effectiveness of Simulation-Based Training in Enhancing BLS Knowledge and Skill Competency among Physiotherapy Students: An OSCE-Based Assessment", Volume 14 Issue 7, July 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 224-228, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25701223815, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25701223815