Aim: To assess the effectiveness of an educational program in improving knowledge and practical skills of COLS among allied health trainees.

Method and Design: A quasi-experimental study was conducted from January 2024 to September 2024, involving 220 trainees from optometry (n=190) and physiotherapy (n=30) programs. An educational program based on standard COLS guidelines and algorithm was delivered, followed by hands-on training sessions. Knowledge was assessed pre- and post-intervention using a structured questionnaire, and practical skills were evaluated using a standardized COLS checklist. Participants received immediate feedback, and barriers to skill performance were documented. Skill reinforcement was provided until all participants achieved full competence.

Results: The mean age of participants was 27.18 ± 9.49 years, with 97 males (44.1%) and 123 females (55.9%). Baseline knowledge was inadequate (mean 4.15 ± 2.4) but improved significantly after training (mean 15.30 ± 2.85, p=0.001). In the first attempt, 85% of participants performed COLS correctly, with reinforcement and repeated practice leading to 100% competence by the third attempt across all checklist items, including scene safety, victim recognition, emergency activation, and chest compressions.

Conclusion: A structured educational program incorporating guidelines, algorithm-based instruction, and hands-on training effectively improved knowledge and skills in COLS among allied health trainees. Repeated practice and feedback ensured universal competence, demonstrating the value of structured interventions in life-saving training.