Factors influencing the delivery of basic pre-hospital trauma care during disaster by the Emergency Medical Services of the Bureau of Fire Protection.
- Author:
Marites S. GERONIMO
1
Author Information
- Publication Type:Journal Article, Original
- Keywords: Disaster Preparedness; Trauma Care; Ems Training; Bureau Of Fire Protection
- MeSH: Emergency Medical Services
- From: Health Sciences Journal 2025;14(1):30-35
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
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Abstract:
INTRODUCTION
The Philippines is considered a disaster-prone country, making basic pre-hospital trauma care essential in the disaster response. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is mandated by law as the lead agency in providing emergency medical services (EMS) in the country, which plays a critical role in disaster response. This study aimed to investigate the influence of the different factors (knowledge, training, experience, and logistics) on the disaster preparedness of the BFP EMS personnel and to identify the strongest predictor among the factors.
METHODSA correlational study was done among 125 EMS personnel in the Bureau of Fire ProtectionNational Capital Region (BFP-NCR) using stratified random sampling. A four-part questionnaire, which included a demographic form, a 20-item knowledge test, a logistics compliance checklist from the Department of Health licensing tool, and the Emergency Preparedness Information Questionnaire (EPIQ) was used. Statistical analysis done were Pearson correlation and logistic regression.
RESULTSThe findings showed that knowledge (OR = 0.299, 95% CI: 0.128–0.689), training (OR = 3.2, 95% CI: 1.8–5.6), and experience (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.1–3.4) affected the level of disaster preparedness. Furthermore, logistics did not show a significant effect (p > 0.05).
CONCLUSIONThe strongest predictor of disaster preparedness among the factors is knowledge. Even though logistics is an essential factor, its effectiveness still depends on the proper utilization by trained personnel. Recommendations include continuous training and retention of experienced personnel, which are essential to enhance BFP EMS readiness during disasters.