The effect of ASLS instruction on the knowledge and skills of medical students in Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran, Single group pre-and post-test design

Background: Given the higher burden of stroke in Iran compared to many high-income countries, this study aimed to investigate the effect of Advanced Stroke Life Support (ASLS) training on enhancing the prehospital performance of medical caregivers in Tabriz, Iran. Methods: Medical interns at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences participated in an ASLS training course consisting of lectures and group sessions that consisted of video-based case education on stroke diagnosis and management, alongside hands-on training in using standardized stroke assessment tools (CPSS, MEND, NIHSS) for simulated patients. Participants’ performance in stroke knowledge and management was assessed using a test exam before and after the ASLS course, and their scores were compared. Results: The results showed that participants scored 61.30% and 84.13% before and after the ASLS course, respectively, indicating a significant improvement (P=0.001). However, their improvement was not the same in different stroke education fields, such as epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis, and management. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that the ASLS course can be used as an effective way to improve skills and knowledge in managing stroke patients.