LAGUNA – Basic Life Support (BLS) training significantly improves the confidence and emergency response readiness of Biology students, according to a study published by Asnar L. Aloro, Joel C. Bondad, and Albert R. Castillo from Laguna State Polytechnic University in the Philippines.
The research appeared in the 2026 edition of the International Journal of Scientific Multidisciplinary Research and highlights the growing importance of emergency response skills for non-medical university students, especially those involved in laboratory and field-based scientific activities.
Basic Life Support refers to essential life-saving procedures such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), rescue breathing, choking response, and the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). While BLS training is commonly associated with medical and nursing education, the researchers argue that science students also face situations where emergency response skills can become critical.
Asnar L. Aloro and his team noted that Biology students frequently participate in laboratory work, outdoor research, and field activities where accidents or sudden medical emergencies may occur. However, many science-related programs still do not include formal BLS education as part of their curriculum.
To examine the issue, the researchers conducted a pre-test and post-test study involving 35 Bachelor of Science in Biology students at Laguna State Polytechnic University San Pablo City Campus. Most participants were female students aged between 21 and 30 years old, with many coming from senior academic levels.
Before the training sessions, many students reported limited confidence in performing emergency procedures. The lowest confidence levels were found in using Automated External Defibrillators, with an average score of only 1.857 on a four-point scale.
Participants also expressed uncertainty in performing chest compressions, delivering rescue breaths, and making quick decisions during medical emergencies. Many feared making mistakes or unintentionally harming victims.
After participating in hands-on BLS workshops and simulation-based exercises, students showed significant improvements across nearly all competency areas.
Understanding of BLS procedures increased from an average score of 2.943 to 3.714. Confidence in performing chest compressions rose from 2.543 to 3.343, while rescue breathing skills improved from 2.457 to 3.434.
One of the most notable improvements involved recognizing cardiac arrest signs and responding effectively during emergencies. Students also became more willing to assist family members, friends, and even strangers in life-threatening situations.
The study found that practical simulations played a major role in strengthening both technical abilities and emotional preparedness. Students became more capable of managing stress and maintaining focus during emergency scenarios after completing the training.
According to Joel C. Bondad and colleagues, direct practice and realistic emergency simulations are more effective than classroom theory alone in developing emergency response competency.
The findings also revealed that many students still believed additional training was necessary despite their improved skills. Researchers explained that BLS competency requires continuous practice and refresher programs to maintain long-term readiness.
Statistical analysis in the study confirmed that the increase in competency and confidence was highly significant and unlikely to occur by chance. The training intervention demonstrated measurable effects on students’ emergency preparedness and self-perceived capability.
Albert R. Castillo stated that integrating BLS training into university education could provide long-term societal benefits. Beyond academic development, life-saving skills can help students respond effectively in real-world emergencies where immediate action is often critical.
The researchers recommended making Basic Life Support training a mandatory component for Biology students and potentially other science-related programs. They also emphasized the importance of regular refresher courses and collaborations with certified emergency response professionals.
The study concluded that equipping university students with emergency response skills can strengthen public preparedness and potentially increase survival rates in critical situations.
Author Profile:
Asnar L. Aloro, Joel C. Bondad, and Albert R. Castillo are researchers from Laguna State Polytechnic University, Philippines, focusing on science education, emergency preparedness, Basic Life Support training, and student competency development.
Research Source:
“Self-Perceived Competency of Bachelor of Science in Biology in Performing Basic Life Support Training in Enhancing Emergency Response Preparedness”
International Journal of Scientific Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 4, No. 5, 2026.
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