Introduction: First aid is crucial in case of injury or sudden illness, where properly performed procedures can significantly influence the outcome of the event and even decide on the life or death of the individual. Due to various factors, the Slovenian national community in Italy, which lives in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, faces a lack of basic knowledge of first aid. This condition is problematic as it can complicate timely and effective intervention in emergency situations that require immediate medical attention. Purpose: The aim of the research was to assess knowledge about the basics of first aid for people abroad in Friuli Venezia Giulia. The objectives were: to obtain data on self-assessment of the knowledge of people abroad in Friuli Venezia Giulia in general and data on their knowledge of call in 112, methods of care for bleeding, burns, first aid measures in the event of airway obstruction due to a foreign body, hypoglycaemia, action in the event of anaphylactic shock, the situation for the unconscious, and resuscitation and use of AED. Method: The descriptive method was used. We reviewed the professional and scientific literature in selected areas of first aid. Based on the literature review, a questionnaire was developed, which included 26 closed-ended and 1 open-ended questions on first aid topics. The data was collected and processed using the 1KA web application and Microsoft Excel 2016. Results: The study involved 256 respondents from the Slovene minority of Friuli Venezia Giulia. We found a lack of knowledge of respondents about placing an unconscious person in a stable lateral position, as less than half of respondents (48%) would have acted correctly according to the answers. Less than half of respondents (47%) also correctly answered the question about the correct relationship between chest distress and sprays in the event of resuscitation of a person. One third of the surveyed assess their knowledge of first aid as sufficient or insufficient. Discussion and conclusion: Most of the respondents express a desire to upgrade their knowledge of first aid, but face a lack of opportunities for further learning and refresher training in the local community. We recommend that the relevant organisations in the region take action and organise first aid training for expatriates. This will help them maintain their knowledge, improve their skills and prepare for emergencies.
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