Gender perspective in cardiopulmonary resuscitation training: Evaluation of an educational intervention using a simulator with female anatomy.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate knowledge, skills and attitudes regarding cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) according to patient sex, and to analyze whether a gender-perspective training intervention can influence these aspects.

Design: Quasi-experimental study with random allocation and pre-post evaluation.

Setting: Faculty of Medicine (University of Murcia).

Participants: 96 students; 42% men and 58% women.

Interventions: Participants completed a baseline survey and performed a simulation using a mannequin with female anatomy. Subsequently, they were randomized to an experimental or control group. The experimental group received a CPR training workshop with a gender perspective and repeated both the survey and the simulation, while the control group completed both evaluations without training.

Main variables of interest: Theoretical knowledge, perception of safety, performance of technical skills, and attitude toward CPR in women.

Results: At baseline, no differences were observed between the two groups. After the intervention, the experimental group showed higher perception of safety, with significant improvements in chest exposure (5 [1-8] vs 2 [1-4], P < .001), reduction of fear of misinterpretations (7 [3-8] vs 3 [1-6], P < .001), and perception that breasts may affect CPR (6 [5-8] vs 3 [1-5], P < .001). In addition, better CPR performance and appropriate placement of defibrillator pads (31.6% vs 84.2%, P < .001) in relation to breast anatomy.

Conclusions: Training with a gender perspective is associated with improved knowledge, skills, and attitudes toward the resuscitation of women and may contribute to reducing training barriers and increasing confidence of future professionals.