Abstract P449: Closing the Gender Gap in Bystander Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: Unveiling Disparities and Pathways to Equal Lifesaving

Abstract

Introduction: Gender disparities in CPR persist, with women receiving CPR less frequently than men during out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. This abstract emphasizes the importance of addressing this disparity through awareness campaigns and offers innovative strategies for prevention, including gender-sensitive CPR training methods and a community program example from New Orleans. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify studies on gender disparities in bystander CPR. Factors contributing to these disparities were analyzed, including hesitations related to physical contact, challenges in recognizing cardiac arrest in women, and societal biases. Survival data were assessed to highlight the lifesaving potential of gender-equal CPR. Results: Research revealed that gender disparities in CPR provision are common, influenced by factors such as reluctance to perform chest compressions on women, difficulties in identifying cardiac arrest in female patients, and the perpetuation of gender stereotypes. These factors result in significantly different survival rates, with women facing a higher risk of worse outcomes. Discussion: Addressing gender disparities in bystander CPR provision requires a multifaceted approach, including community-based CPR training programs that emphasize gender sensitivity. These programs should feature anatomically correct CPR training dolls with breast attachments to ensure trainees are prepared to perform CPR on anyone. It is crucial that CPR course instruction also incorporate information on gender disparities to raise awareness among trainees. Public awareness campaigns should work to dispel myths and biases related to gender and CPR, promoting more equitable lifesaving practices. An exemplary program from New Orleans demonstrates the impact of community-based initiatives. In this effort, community members were trained in CPR using gender-inclusive materials, including CPR dolls with breast attachments. The training included statistical information on gender disparities, bias assessments, survivor testimonials, and discussions aimed at dispelling myths about providing CPR to women. This program successfully empowered the community with the knowledge and skills to overcome gender biases in CPR, promoting gender-equitable lifesaving measures. Conclusion: Preventing gender disparities in bystander CPR provision to women is essential to enhance survival rates for female cardiac arrest victims. Using public platforms to advocate for these initiatives and emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to eliminate gender bias in lifesaving practices and CPR training is crucial. By illuminating the issue, proposing innovative solutions, and sharing successful community programs, a standard can be cultivated where every individual, regardless of gender, receives timely and effective CPR.