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Bridging the Knowledge-Practice Gap in Cervical Spine Injury First Aid: A Cross-Sectional Study in Southern Saudi
Yahya H Khormi1, Mohammad A Jareebi2, Ali Y Madkhali3
1Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)
|May 13, 2026
Summary
Public awareness of cervical spine injury (CSI) first aid is high in southern Saudi Arabia, but formal training is low. This knowledge-practice gap highlights the need for integrated first aid education to improve outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Public health
- Trauma care
- Emergency medicine
Background:
- Cervical spine injuries (CSIs) are critical, often caused by accidents.
- Inadequate first aid worsens neurological outcomes.
- Data on public preparedness in Saudi Arabia's southern provinces were limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess public awareness and first aid preparedness for CSIs.
- To evaluate knowledge of injury signs and appropriate responses.
- To identify predictors of awareness in southern Saudi Arabia.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 1179 adults in Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, and Najran (2025-2026).
- Validated online questionnaire assessing CSI awareness and first aid knowledge.
- Multiple linear regression identified predictors of awareness.
Main Results:
- Mean awareness score was 80%, with 87% demonstrating good awareness.
- High recognition of spinal immobilization (89%) and head-neck alignment (95%).
- Low formal medical/trauma training (39%) and first aid experience (3%).
Conclusions:
- Public awareness of CSI first aid is generally high.
- Formal training participation is critically low, indicating a knowledge-practice gap.
- Integrating structured first aid training is crucial for better trauma outcomes.