The state of first aid & cardio-pulmonary resuscitation: assessment of confidence, support, and perceptions in the wake of a health emergency among students of Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi

This cross-sectional study assesses awareness, confidence, and training gaps in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation among university students and young adults in Varanasi City. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic variables, CPR awareness, self-rated ability, previous training, and perceived barriers to performing CPR. The majority of participants were 23 years old (41%), male (56.7%), and postgraduate students (65.7%). Descriptive analysis showed varied confidence, indication, support, symptom recognition, and perception scores, with confidence demonstrating the greatest variability (Mean = 9.22, SD = 3.70). Exposure to actual FA/CPR was significantly related to overall scores (F = 3.466, p = 0.010), with active CPR providers scoring highest. Male student’s scored significantly higher than females (t = 3.319, p = 0.002). Hesitation was primarily due to safety concerns and lack of training. The findings highlight the importance of practical exposure and structured training in enhancing confidence and preparedness. It is recommended that universities implement regular, hands-on CPR and First Aid programs, along with targeted interventions to address psychological barriers and increase overall readiness for health emergencies.