WHY DON’T WOMEN RECEIVE PROPER CARE DURING A HEART ATTACK?

Gender disparity in the administration of CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is a well-documented issue. Research indicates that men are more likely than women to receive CPR in public settings. This disparity can be attributed to several factors, including social and psychological barriers, as well as misconceptions about performing CPR on women. Here are some key aspects:

1. Reluctance to Touch: Bystanders may hesitate to administer CPR to women out of fear
   of causing harm, being accused of inappropriate contact, or causing embarrassment. This
   hesitation is notably absent when CPR is administered to men, contributing to a lower
   rate of CPR for female patients.
2. Perception of Risk: Another contributing factor is the misconception that women are
   less likely to experience cardiac arrest. This false perception can reduce the urgency of
   response from bystanders and professionals alike.
3. Physical Barriers and Training Bias: Mannequins used in CPR training are often based
   on male anatomy, which can create a lack of familiarity with how to perform CPR on a
   female body, particularly regarding hand placement and force.
4. Clothing Barriers: Tight clothing or concerns over exposure can also contribute to
   bystander reluctance in public settings, especially in urgent situations when seconds count.

Addressing these issues involves increasing public awareness of the gender gap in CPR administration, improving training to cover both male and female anatomy, and reducing stigma around providing aid to women. Such initiatives are critical for improving outcomes for all cardiac arrest victims, regardless of gender.

The International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) is an organization that
develops global recommendations on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and emergency cardiovascular care. Every five years, it publishes updated guidelines based on the latest evidence to ensure best practices in resuscitation.

Hopefully, it will take this gender bias into account as it provides guidance on emergency care
for women.

Certain industries (primarily construction) require an adequate number of employees to be trained in first aid and/or CPR and on every job site.

First aid and CPR training are essential skills that empower individuals to respond effectively to
emergencies, potentially saving lives and reducing the severity of injuries. Here’s why this
training is so important:

1. Increases Survival Rates: In emergencies like cardiac arrest, each minute that passes
   without CPR decreases a person’s chances of survival by about 10%. CPR can keep
   blood and oxygen circulating, bridging the gap until professional medical help arrives.
2. Reduces Recovery Time: Proper first aid can minimize injury severity and, in some
   cases, reduce the recovery time. Quick intervention can help prevent an injury from
   worsening.
3. Prevents Situations from Escalating: First aid knowledge allows people to recognize
   serious issues early on and stabilize conditions, preventing further harm and potential
   complications.
4. Builds Confidence in Crisis: Having the training can make people more confident and
   prepared, allowing them to act swiftly and efficiently in high-stress situations instead of
   hesitating due to fear or uncertainty.
5. Increases Workplace Safety: Knowing these skills can reduce workplace accidents and
   prepare employees to respond if they do occur.
6. Promotes Safety Awareness: Beyond the immediate skills, first aid and CPR training
   encourage a general awareness of safety and the importance of preparedness, which can
   prevent accidents from happening in the first place.
7. Empowers Community Members: With training, everyday people can be community
   assets, offering help when incidents occur in public settings. This can lead to safer
   communities and a collective sense of responsibility.

First aid and CPR training can make a significant difference in critical moments, empowering
individuals with the knowledge and skills to act decisively and effectively in emergencies.
Receive a 10% discount by scheduling first aid training in November. Training can be held from
now through the end of the first quarter of 2025.

Email [email protected] with your date and time preference.