2025/03/03 by Riley Huntley, Connor J O'Keefe, Lydia Wytenbroek
#airway management #drowning #first aid education #lifeguard #oxygen administration #ventilation
paper · doi:10.25894/ijfae.2485
Objective:To evaluate lifeguards' confidence, experience, and learning preferences following training in airway management and oxygen administration (AMOA). The goal was to identify gaps in confidence and experience, as well as preferred training methods. Methods:An online survey was completed by 1,123 professional Canadian lifeguards certified in AMOA. The survey included questions asking respondents to rate their confidence using AMOA devices, their real-life experiences with these tools, and their preferred learning methods. Results:While 77.1% of lifeguards reported feeling confident in administering oxygen, only 31.4% expressed confidence in using manual suction devices in real-life situations. The majority (61.4%) recommended hands-on AMOA training every six months, and 62.2% recommended that these training sessions last between 1-2 hours. Lifeguards preferred YouTube videos as their primary learning resource (42.3%), followed by online training modules (23.2%). Limited hands-on experience with advanced AMOA devices, such as bag-valve masks and oral airways, was noted, contributing to lower confidence in these areas. Conclusion:The findings highlight the need for regular, hands-on training, especially with advanced interventions, to enhance lifeguards' confidence. While lifeguards report confidence in oxygen administration, limited real-life application with other tools underscores gaps in practical proficiency. Considering frequent training that includes preferred digital resources, such as online videos, could strengthen skill retention and preparedness. These results support updated, adaptable training approaches to ensure lifeguards are fully equipped to respond confidently and effectively in emergencies.