Enhancing Mothers’ Preparedness for Home Safety and Emergency Response: The Effect of Simulation-Based First Aid Training among Mothers of Under-Five Children

Abstract

<ns3:p> Background Unintentional home injuries are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five. Mothers, as primary caregivers, often lack the necessary knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to respond effectively to emergencies. Simulation-based training (SBT) is an evidence-based method that enhances learning, skill acquisition, and self-efficacy. Aim This study evaluated the effect of simulation-based first aid training on mothers’ preparedness for home safety and emergency response in households with children. Methods A quasi-experimental one-group pre- and post-test design was conducted with 144 mothers attending three Primary Health Care Centers. Data were collected using validated and reliable structured questionnaires on socio-demographics, first aid knowledge, and home safety practices, along with a post-simulation self-confidence scale. The intervention consisted of six scenario-based simulation sessions covering common home accidents. Paired comparisons, effect sizes (η <ns3:sup>2</ns3:sup> ), and correlation analyses were performed. Results Post-training mothers’ first aid knowledge and home safety practices significantly improved (knowledge: pre 36.9 ± 24.0, post 86.4 ± 18.2, η <ns3:sup>2</ns3:sup> ≈ 0.789; safety practices: pre 29.9 ± 12.9, post 91.6 ± 16.4, η <ns3:sup>2</ns3:sup> ≈ 0.902). Most participants reported high satisfaction, found the content relevant, and expressed strong confidence in their ability to master the skills. Significant positive correlations were found between knowledge, home safety practices, and emergency response confidence (r = 0.698–0.791; p &lt; 0.001). Conclusion Simulation-based first aid training effectively enhances mothers’ knowledge, safety practices, and confidence in managing home emergencies. Incorporating such training into maternal and child health programs can strengthen household preparedness and promote child safety. </ns3:p>