Knowledge and Confidence in Psychological First Aid Among Bureau of Fire Protection Responders at District IV, Metro Manila

This study determined the level of knowledge and confidence in facilitating PFA among Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) responders assigned in District IV, Metro Manila, and examined the relationship between these variables. A descriptive, comparative, correlational, and cross-sectional quantitative design was utilized among 697 BFP responders from seven fire stations and the district headquarters. Data were collected from April to May 2026 using a validated questionnaire adapted from the World Health Organization Psychological First Aid Trainer’s Handbook. Results revealed that respondents demonstrated adequate knowledge of PFA, with self-care for responders obtaining the highest mean score (WM = 3.58, SD = 0.56). However, confidence in facilitating PFA was only moderate, with Self-Care and Team Support receiving the highest confidence rating (WM = 3.33, SD = 0.63) and Linking to Services and Recognition of Distress obtaining the lowest scores (WM = 2.99). Significant differences in knowledge were observed according to age, rank, and years of service, while age, sex, rank, and PFA training significantly influenced confidence levels (p < 0.05). A significant moderate positive relationship was found between knowledge and confidence (r = 0.464, p < 0.001). The findings indicated that although respondents possessed adequate baseline knowledge, only 7.5% had received formal PFA training, and confidence remained moderate. Therefore, implementing a structured, institutionalized 16-hour PFA training curriculum was recommended to enhance psychosocial readiness among BFP responders.