The BLS training program held on 21st October 2025 at 4.00 PM in the Skills Lab of the Faculty of Medical Sciences was conducted for university Ambulance drivers, recognising that they are often the first to encounter emergencies on campus. The session aimed to equip them with practical, life-saving skills they can apply immediately.
The program began with a lecture delivered in Sinhala. This was followed by hands-on training across five skills stations using mannequins. Pre- and post-course questionnaires showed a clear and encouraging improvement in knowledge and confidence among participants.
By the end of the workshop, drivers were able to detect and confirm cardiac arrest, perform effective Basic Life Support (BLS), immobilise the cervical spine using manual in-line stabilisation (MILS), safely log roll a patient, and stabilise the spine using simple resources such as towels and straps. The initiative highlighted the value of empowering first-contact personnel with essential emergency response skills.
