The acquisition,maintenance, and generalization of first-aid skills by youths with handicaps

This study validated a program for teaching first-aid skills to four youths with handicaps. Two first-aid skills were targeted for training: treating minor wounds that continue to bleed (not severe) and treating minor burns. Also, data were gathered on the treatment of abrasions to assess the collateral effects of the program. The program featured an activity book with task-analysed illustrations, puppets, a first-aid kit, reinforcement, and corrective feedback. A multiple base-line design across first-aid skills was replicated across each of the four participants. Probes and pre-/post-training assessments were conducted to measure generalization via the treatment of the injuries of others, as well as self-injuries; additionally, assessments were conducted in the participants' natural homes to determine generalized effects across settings. Results revealed that the participants had generalized and maintained (up to 66 weeks) the acquired first-aid skills. The program appears to offer promise as a means of teaching first-aid skills to youths with handicaps, since it produces effects which generalize across settings and novel situations, and which maintain over time.