Study Finds CPR Training Manikins Lack Diversity

Researchers from Bond University have identified a critical gap in CPR training that may contribute to the disparity in survival rates between men and women experiencing cardiac arrests. Their study revealed that 95% of CPR manikins lack breasts, which may discourage bystanders from performing CPR on women due to concerns over accusations of assault or discomfort with touching. Women are 10% less likely to receive CPR compared to men, and they face higher mortality rates and complications after cardiac arrest. This issue raises questions about equity in healthcare training, as traditional manikins do not represent the anatomical differences that could affect bystander response. Dr. Rebecca Szabo's research highlights the need for inclusive training tools that can improve comfort and confidence in administering CPR to all genders. Companies are beginning to address this issue by creating female manikins, but experts stress that more needs to be done to ensure equitable health outcomes.