Abstract:
Cardiac arrest is an unexpected loss of heart function, breathing and
consciousness. The availability and proper operation of the resuscitation equipment are necessary
for the successful performance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (Tsima, Billy, Rajeswaran et al.,
2019). Aim: The aim of this research is to evaluate factors affecting the utilization of emergency
trolleys for cardiopulmonary resuscitation equipment at James Jerkins Dossen referral hospital in
rural Liberia. Method: The study methods used to investigate the findings at the J. J. Dossen
referral hospital were a quantitative approach, cross-sectional design, data was collected from 83
healthcare professionals across seven clinical units and through inspection of seven emergency
trolleys, employing questionnaires and checklists. Data collection occurred from February 1 to
April 30, 2024, and analysis was performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences
(SPSS) version 25. Results: Approximately 80% of units possessed at least one trolley.
Operational issues affected 71.25% of available trolleys, with 32.50% facing access barriers.
Effective utilization was supported by regular content checks (72.50%), trolley use training
(41.25%), emergency response plans (55%), and maintenance protocols (53.75%). Hindrances
included lack of training (58.75%), inconsistent maintenance (42.50%), and resource limitations
affecting equipment availability (27.50%) and functionality (22.75%). Accessibility challenges
were reported by 66.25% of participants. Overall, position in the hospital found to be a strong
predictor of effective utilization of emergency trolleys and CPR equipment, with an odds ratio of
3.422 (95% CI: [1.33, 8.77]) and a p-value of 0.010. Years of experience greatly enhanced
utilization, with an odds ratio of 24.11 per additional year (95% CI: [5.07, 114.3]) and a p-value
of 0.000. Level of education also significantly impacted utilization of emergency trolleys and
CPR equipment in the hospital, with an odds ratio of 4.95 (95% CI: [1.85, 13.22]) and a p-value
of 0.001. Conclusions: The present study revealed that although most hospital units have
emergency trolleys, significant gaps exist in the functionality and accessibility of CPR
equipment. Findings showed that job position, educational level and years of experience in
health care services significantly impacted utilization of emergency trolleys and CPR equipment
in the hospital
