Why Women Are Less Likely to Receive CPR and How We Can Change That

Why Women Are Less Likely to Receive CPR and How We Can Change That

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

When someone collapses due to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), every second is crucial. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can double or even triple the chance of survival in these moments. Despite this, research shows a concerning trend: women are less likely to receive bystander CPR than men. This disparity in treatment can have life-or-death consequences.

Understanding why women are less likely to receive CPR in an emergency and what we can do to change it is critical to closing this life-threatening gender gap.

The CPR Gender Gap: What the Research Says

A growing body of research highlights the gender disparity when it comes to CPR. One study presented at the American Heart Association conference found that only 39% of women who experienced cardiac arrest in public received bystander CPR, compared to 45% of men. This may not seem like a large difference, but the consequences are stark: men are 23% more likely to survive cardiac arrest when it occurs in public than women.

Several factors contribute to this disparity, ranging from social fears to misconceptions about how cardiac arrest presents itself in women. These factors create unnecessary barriers that prevent bystanders from stepping in when women need it most.

Several key reasons explain why bystanders may hesitate to perform CPR on women: fear of inappropriate contact, misconceptions about women and heart attacks, underrepresentation in CPR training, and clothing barriers. The good news is that we can address these barriers with education, awareness, and updated training. Here’s how we can start to close the CPR gender gap and ensure that women receive life-saving assistance when they need it:

1. Education and Awareness Campaigns
Raising awareness about the importance of CPR for everyone, regardless of gender, is essential. Public health campaigns need to emphasize that cardiac arrest is not a gendered issue, and women are just as likely to need CPR as men. These campaigns should also educate people about the differences in how heart attacks and cardiac arrest may present in women to help bystanders recognize an emergency quickly.

2. Normalize Performing CPR on Women
We need to address the fear of inappropriate contact head-on by normalizing the idea that performing CPR is a life-saving act. Bystanders should be reminded that in an emergency, the primary focus should be on saving a life, not worrying about appearances or social norms. Good Samaritan laws, which protect individuals who offer assistance in an emergency, should be more widely publicized to alleviate fears of legal repercussions.

3. CPR Training on Diverse Manikins
CPR courses should update their training tools to include female and more diverse body types. Incorporating female manikins can help participants feel more comfortable administering CPR on women. This adjustment will ensure that responders are familiar with both male and female anatomy and are less likely to hesitate when performing CPR in real situations.

4. Address Clothing Concerns in Training
CPR instructors should specifically address how to handle clothing concerns during CPR, particularly with bras and restrictive clothing. In an emergency, bystanders need to know how to act swiftly and efficiently, without being held back by uncertainty. Teaching people how to perform chest compressions effectively without worrying about clothing will improve confidence.

5. Encourage Women to Learn CPR
Encouraging more women to learn CPR can help create a chain reaction. Women who are trained in CPR may feel more comfortable stepping in to assist another woman in an emergency. In addition, increasing the number of trained female responders helps create a culture where providing aid is normalized across gender lines.

6. Focus on the Humanity of Saving a Life
In the heat of an emergency, it’s easy to become fixated on fears of doing the “wrong” thing. We need to remind ourselves and others that when someone is in cardiac arrest, the worst thing you can do is nothing. Bystanders need to understand that without CPR, the chances of survival drop dramatically with every minute. The fear of touching someone should never outweigh the potential to save their life.

The CPR gender gap is a solvable problem, but it requires a shift in mindset and training. Women are just as likely as men to need life-saving CPR, and bystanders need to feel empowered to take action without hesitation. By increasing education, improving CPR training, and spreading awareness, we can ensure that every person, regardless of gender, receives the help they need in an emergency. When it comes to saving a life, everyone deserves an equal chance.

Let’s close the gap, break down barriers, and make sure that no woman is left without the care she needs. Learn CPR today, and you could be the difference between life and death for someone tomorrow.

Office: (205) 417-4711
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The Importance of AEDs in Youth Sports and Smart Heart Sports Coalition

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

In recent years, the conversation around safety in youth sports has taken on a new urgency, especially when it comes to sudden cardiac events. The high-profile cardiac arrest of NFL player Damar Hamlin during a game in 2023 sent shockwaves through the sports world, highlighting the life-saving importance of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). Although Hamlin was playing in a professional league, his experience underlines the need for widespread access to AEDs at all levels of sport, including youth athletics.  Thankfully, Hamlin survived the terrifying incident and has since used his platform to raise awareness about the importance of AEDs in sport

Sudden cardiac arrest doesn’t just affect older adults—it can happen to anyone, including young athletes who appear to be in peak physical condition. In fact, sudden cardiac death is the leading cause of death in young athletes during exercise. An AED on-site can be the difference between life and death in these situations.

In the wake of incidents like Hamlin’s, organizations like the Smart Heart Sports Coalition have been working to make AEDs more accessible at sports facilities across the country. The Smart Heart Sports Coalition is dedicated to raising awareness of sudden cardiac arrest in youth sports, providing education on how to recognize and respond to cardiac emergencies, and advocating for the placement of AEDs in all public spaces, particularly sports arenas and fields where young athletes compete.

Their mission aligns with a growing movement to improve safety standards in youth sports by ensuring that every field, gym, and court is equipped with an AED. The Coalition also emphasizes the importance of training coaches, referees, and even young athletes on how to use an AED and perform CPR. Early defibrillation, combined with proper CPR, is the most effective way to increase survival rates in cases of SCA.

Here’s why AEDs should be a non-negotiable part of youth sports:

  1. Rapid Response is Crucial: For every minute that passes without defibrillation, the chance of survival decreases by 7-10%. Having an AED on-site can ensure a life-saving response before emergency medical services arrive.
  2. Cardiac Events Can Happen to Anyone: Even seemingly healthy children and teenagers may have undiagnosed heart conditions. Physical exertion in sports can sometimes trigger these hidden conditions, leading to sudden cardiac arrest.
  3. Legal and Liability Protection: Many states have passed “Good Samaritan” laws to protect individuals and organizations that use AEDs in emergency situations, encouraging more widespread adoption of these devices.
  4. Creating a Culture of Preparedness: Having AEDs on-site sends a strong message about the importance of safety in youth sports. It encourages leagues, schools, and communities to be proactive about health risks.

The heart-stopping moment when Damar Hamlin collapsed on the field was a sobering reminder that cardiac emergencies can strike without warning. The quick response from medical staff—and the presence of an AED on the field—undoubtedly saved Hamlin’s life. His experience serves as a powerful reminder that medical emergencies can occur in any sport, at any time, and that being prepared with the right equipment is essential.  His experience, along with the advocacy efforts of organizations like the Heart Smart Coalition, should motivate youth sports leagues to ensure AEDs are accessible and staff are trained in their use.

Sports are an essential part of growing up, teaching children teamwork, discipline, and resilience. But safety must come first. Ensuring that every youth sports facility is equipped with an AED could be the key to saving a life.  If you’re involved in youth sports as a parent, coach, or athlete, take a moment to inquire whether your league or school has an AED on-site. Advocate for training and resources to be made available in your community. Organizations like the Smart Heart Sports Coalition provide valuable resources and guidance to make sports safer for everyone. Let’s work together to ensure our kids play hard, stay healthy, and always have a safety net in place.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

Why Every Workplace Needs an AED Response Plan: Be Prepared, Save Lives

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

When it comes to emergencies, every second counts. One of the most critical and life-saving tools available in public and private spaces today is the Automated External Defibrillator (AED). AEDs are designed to treat sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), a condition that can happen to anyone, anywhere, without warning. The chances of survival decrease by 7-10% for every minute that passes without defibrillation, but with an AED response plan in place, you can save lives. 

Implementing an AED response plan doesn’t have to be overwhelming.  An AED response plan is not just about having the right equipment—it’s about preparing your team to respond quickly and confidently when it matters most. The investment in an AED and proper training are small prices to pay when it comes to saving lives.   Below are some suggestions on how you can create a response plan for your organization:

1. Purchase and Place AEDs Strategically- Make sure your AED is easily accessible. It should be located in a visible, high-traffic area where anyone can reach it quickly. Common locations include break rooms, near elevators, or main lobbies. Ensure that your organization has enough AEDs to cover large spaces—time is crucial.

2. Train Employees on AED Use and CPR- While AEDs are designed for anyone to use, training employees on how to respond in an emergency is key. Hold regular training sessions that cover basic CPR techniques and proper AED use. This training should also include recognizing the symptoms of cardiac arrest and how to act swiftly.

3. Create a Clear Chain of Response- When an emergency happens, it’s important that everyone knows who’s responsible for what. Designate individuals or teams as emergency response leads. These people should know how to operate the AED, provide CPR, and call for emergency medical services (EMS). Post emergency procedures in visible areas around the workplace.                                                                                                                                                                                                                             
4. Regularly Maintain Your AEDs- Like any life-saving equipment, AEDs require regular maintenance. Be sure to check the battery life and expiration dates on electrode pads. Schedule regular inspections to ensure the device is fully functional and ready for use.

5. Conduct Emergency Drills- Regularly practice emergency response drills to reinforce your plan. Familiarity breeds confidence, and in an emergency, you want your staff to feel empowered to act, not panicked. Run through simulated scenarios where employees need to use the AED, call 911, and perform CPR. Make sure everyone understands their role in the chain of survival.

Cardiac arrest emergencies don’t give warnings, but by putting an AED response plan in place, you ensure that when seconds count, you’re ready to act. Make your workplace or organization a safer place today by investing in an AED and empowering your team to be lifesavers. Be prepared, and you might just save a life.

Office: (205) 417-4711
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Preventing Sudden Cardiac Arrest in High School Athletes: A Vital Effort

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a leading cause of death among high school athletes.  High-intensity sports put extra stress on young hearts, especially if athletes have undetected heart conditions. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and arrhythmias are two common causes of SCA. Unfortunately, these conditions can go unnoticed, as most young athletes appear healthy and fit.  

Statistics show that overall survival of a high school athlete surviving a SCA is 48%.  Surviving a SCA with an Athletic Trainer (performing high-quality CPR) and AED present is 85%!!! Wow!!  What a staggering comparison! While rare, its impact is devastating, making prevention crucial.  Some prevention strategies to consider:

  1. Pre-participation Screenings: A thorough medical history and physical exam are critical. Some schools include electrocardiograms (ECGs) to detect hidden heart abnormalities, though this isn’t always mandatory.
  2. CPR and AED Training: Quick response is vital in cases of SCA. Immediate CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) can save lives. Schools should ensure staff, coaches, and even students are trained in these life-saving techniques.
  3. Access to AEDs: Having AEDs readily available at all sporting events and practices is essential. These devices can shock the heart back into a normal rhythm, dramatically improving survival rates.
  4. Promote Awareness: Coaches, parents, and athletes should be aware of warning signs like fainting, chest pain, or shortness of breath during exercise. Taking these symptoms seriously and seeking medical evaluation can prevent tragedies.

By focusing on early detection, proper emergency response, and increased awareness, schools can help protect high school athletes from the risks of sudden cardiac arrest. Preventive measures may seem small, but they can make a life-saving difference.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

Closing the Cardiac Arrest Survival Gap

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN, AED365 Leader 

Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating, preventing blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. Immediate response is critical, as survival rates decrease by about 10% with each minute that passes without intervention. Unfortunately, the likelihood of survival can vary drastically depending on where a cardiac arrest occurs and who and what resources are nearby.  We need to work towards closing the cardiac arrest survival gap and ensuring that every individual has an equal chance of survival in the face of this critical medical emergency.  Some strategies to consider in helping to close the survival gap include prioritizing public awareness, expanding access to life-saving tools, and addressing systemic inequalities.

Public knowledge about cardiac arrest and the importance of immediate intervention, such as performing CPR and using AEDs, varies widely. Communities with limited access to educational resources and training programs often see lower bystander intervention rates.  Increasing public awareness about cardiac arrest and the importance of early intervention is crucial. Community-based programs should focus on CPR and AED Training and public awareness campaigns.

Sharing and expanding lifesaving knowledge is essential in closing the survival gap, and even more effective when coupled with proper, accessible equipment.  Ensuring AEDs are available in high-traffic areas such as airports, malls, and sports venues is critical.  Also, implementing policies that support the placement of AEDs in rural and underserved communities can reduce response times and improve outcomes. Partnerships with businesses and community organizations can facilitate this expansion into rural areas, as well.

Expanding access to preventive healthcare services in underserved communities can help reduce the incidence of cardiac arrest by managing risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes. Community engagement and collaborating with local leaders and organizations to identify barriers and develop tailored solutions for specific communities will contribute tremendously.

Working together and educating ourselves on the needs of different communities are essential in shrinking the SCA survival gap.  It is important to consider these suggestions when developing a strategy for sharing lifesaving skills, equipment, and knowledge with others. Let’s make sure we do our part in bridging this gap and increasing SCA survival rates across the globe.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

The Importance of Having Naloxone Available with an AED

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN, AED365 Leader 

In today’s fast-paced world, emergencies can happen at any time, often without warning. Preparation is key, and having the right tools at hand can mean the difference between life and death. One such essential tool is the Automated External Defibrillator (AED). However, in the face of the opioid crisis, it is equally important to consider the addition of naloxone to our emergency response kits.   While AEDs are designed to address cardiac emergencies, naloxone specifically targets opioid overdoses. Having both tools available covers a broader range of potential emergencies, ensuring that responders are equipped to handle various life-threatening situations effectively.

The opioid crisis is a major public health issue. According to the CDC, nearly 500,000 people died from opioid overdoses between 1999 and 2019, with numbers continuing to rise.  Just like cardiac arrest, opioid overdoses are time-sensitive emergencies. When someone experiences a cardiac event, immediate defibrillation with an AED can be lifesaving. Similarly, in the case of an opioid overdose, administering naloxone quickly can restore breathing. Having both tools readily available ensures that responders can act immediately, regardless of the nature of the emergency.  By pairing naloxone with AEDs, we increase the accessibility of this life-saving drug. AEDs are commonly found in public spaces such as schools, airports, and workplaces. 

Including naloxone with AEDs can encourage more comprehensive emergency response training. Many organizations already offer CPR and AED training; incorporating naloxone administration can provide a well-rounded approach to emergency care. This training can help people feel more confident and willing to act during an overdose situation.   The presence of both AEDs and naloxone can enhance community confidence and a sense of safety. Knowing that these tools are available and that individuals are trained to use them can provide peace of mind, encouraging community members to feel more secure in public spaces.

Incorporating naloxone into AED kits is a logical and life-saving step in our approach to emergency preparedness. As we face the dual challenges of cardiac events and opioid overdoses, equipping our public spaces with both AEDs and naloxone ensures that we are prepared to respond effectively to a wide range of emergencies. By doing so, we can save lives, support public health initiatives, and foster a safer, more prepared community.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

The Legal Implications of “Do Not Resuscitate” Tattoos

Author: Marcy Burnham

A DNR order is a legal document stating that a person does not want to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if their heart stops or if they stop breathing. Traditionally, these orders are documented in medical records and often accompanied by physical forms or bracelets. However, some individuals have opted for a more permanent and visible method: tattoos.  While the intent behind these tattoos is clear—to convey the individual’s wish not to be resuscitated in the event of a medical emergency—their legal standing and the responsibilities of medical professionals in such scenarios are complex and often uncertain.

People who choose DNR tattoos may do so for several reasons:

  • They believe it offers a clear and immediate way to communicate their wishes.
  • They want to ensure that their wishes are respected even in situations where traditional documentation might not be readily accessible.
  • They seek to avoid the physical wear or loss associated with other forms of DNR documentation.

The legal implications of DNR tattoos vary widely and are often unclear:

  • In most jurisdictions, a tattoo is not legally recognized as a valid DNR order. Legally binding DNR orders usually need to be documented through specific forms signed by the patient and a physician.
  • Medical professionals who choose to follow the instruction of a DNR tattoo without proper legal documentation risk potential legal repercussions. If a patient or their family contests the decision, it could lead to legal action against the healthcare provider or institution.
  • There have been instances where the presence of a DNR tattoo has led to legal and ethical debates. For example, a case in Florida saw medical personnel honor a man’s DNR tattoo, but only after consulting with legal and ethical advisors. This case highlighted the complexities and potential for varied responses based on individual circumstances and interpretations.

Given the current legal landscape, individuals considering a DNR tattoo and healthcare providers should consider the following:

  • Individuals should ensure they have legally recognized DNR documentation in addition to any tattoo. This can include forms filed with their healthcare provider and accessible to emergency personnel.
  • It’s important for individuals to communicate their wishes with family members, healthcare proxies, and their primary healthcare providers to ensure everyone is aware of and understands their intentions.
  • Healthcare institutions should develop clear policies and training for staff on how to handle situations involving DNR tattoos. This can include protocols for seeking legal and ethical guidance in emergencies.

DNR tattoos raise significant legal and ethical questions that challenge the traditional processes of medical decision-making. While they can be a powerful expression of personal autonomy, the lack of legal recognition and the potential for misinterpretation mean that they should not be relied upon in isolation. Individuals should ensure their end-of-life wishes are documented through legally recognized means, and medical professionals must navigate these situations with careful consideration of both ethical principles and legal obligations. The conversation around DNR tattoos highlights the need for ongoing dialogue and clarity in the intersection of personal rights, medical ethics, and legal standards.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

AED and CPR Awareness Week: Saving Lives Together

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death worldwide, with over 350,000 cases occurring outside of hospitals in the United States alone each year. Immediate intervention with CPR and an AED can double or even triple the chances of survival. However, many people are still unaware of how to perform CPR or use an AED effectively. AED and CPR Awareness Week aims to bridge this knowledge gap by promoting training and encouraging more people to become lifesavers.

What is CPR?
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a critical emergency procedure that combines chest compressions and rescue breaths to maintain blood flow and oxygenation in a person whose heart has stopped beating. CPR can keep vital organs alive until professional medical help arrives, making it a crucial first response to cardiac arrest.

What is an AED?
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable electronic device designed to diagnose and treat sudden cardiac arrest. It delivers an electric shock, or defibrillation, to the heart to restore a normal rhythm. AEDs are user-friendly and provide step-by-step instructions, making them accessible to the general public.

How to Get Involved in AED and CPR Awareness Week

1. Attend a Training Session
Many organizations, including the American Heart Association and the Red Cross, offer CPR and AED training courses throughout the week. Check for local sessions in your area and encourage friends and family to join.

2. Promote Awareness on Social Media
Use your social media platforms to share information about AED and CPR Awareness Week. Post facts, statistics, and personal stories to inspire others to get trained. 

3. Host a Community Event
Organize a community event or workshop to demonstrate CPR and AED use. Partner with local health organizations, schools, or workplaces to maximize reach and impact.

4. Advocate for AED Accessibility
Advocate for the placement of AEDs in public spaces and workplaces. Contact local businesses and government officials to discuss the importance of having easily accessible AEDs.

5. Share Personal Stories
If you or someone you know has been impacted by CPR or AED use, share your story. Personal experiences can be powerful motivators for others to learn these lifesaving skills.

AED and CPR Awareness Week is a vital opportunity to spread knowledge, inspire action, and ultimately save lives. By participating in this awareness week, you can help ensure that more people are prepared to respond effectively in a cardiac emergency. Remember, every second counts, and with the right training and tools, anyone can become a lifesaver. Join us in making a difference this week and beyond!

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

AED Delivery by Drones

AED drones

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN – AED365 Leader

In moments of crisis, every second counts. Whether it’s a sudden cardiac arrest or any other medical emergency, swift action can mean the difference between life and death. But what if help could arrive even faster, in the form of a buzzing drone carrying a life-saving Automated External Defibrillator (AED) straight to the scene?  Welcome to the future of emergency response, where drones are taking to the skies to deliver critical medical supplies, particularly AEDs, in record time. This innovative approach is not just a technological marvel; it’s a game-changer that has the potential to save countless lives.

Time is of the essence in medical emergencies, especially when it comes to cardiac arrest. Every minute without treatment reduces the chance of survival by 7% to 10%. Emergency medical services (EMS) often face challenges in reaching the scene promptly, particularly in densely populated urban areas or remote locations with limited access.

Drones, equipped with GPS navigation and capable of carrying payloads, offer an efficient solution to bridge the gap between the onset of a medical emergency and the arrival of professional assistance. By leveraging the latest advancements in drone technology, organizations and municipalities are exploring the feasibility of using drones to deliver AEDs directly to the scene within minutes of a 911 call.

  1. Accessibility: Drones can reach locations that may be inaccessible to traditional vehicles, such as remote areas, crowded urban environments, or disaster zones.
  2. Early Intervention: Prompt delivery of an AED increases the likelihood of early defibrillation, which is crucial for restoring normal heart rhythm and improving survival rates.
  3. Reduced Response Time: By bypassing traffic and other logistical obstacles, drones can significantly reduce response times, particularly in densely populated areas.
  4. Cost-Effective: Compared to maintaining fleets of ambulances, drones offer a cost-effective alternative for supplementing emergency medical services, especially in areas with limited resources.

 As technology advances and regulatory frameworks evolve, we can expect to see drones playing an increasingly prominent role in emergency response strategies around the world. By harnessing the power of innovation and collaboration, we have the opportunity to transform the way we respond to medical emergencies, ensuring that help is never more than a drone flight away.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

The Lifesaving Impact of Public Access AEDs

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN – AED365 Leader

In moments of crisis, every second counts. When a sudden cardiac arrest strikes, the difference between life and death often hinges on swift intervention. This is where Public Access Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) emerge as silent heroes in our communities, ready to jumpstart a heart and save a life.  A sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) can happen to anyone, anywhere, regardless of age or fitness level. It’s a frightening reality that strikes without warning, often in public spaces, workplaces, or even at home. In such emergencies, the immediate availability of an AED can make all the difference. These portable devices are designed for ease of use by bystanders or non-medical personnel, enabling them to deliver a life-saving shock to restore the heart’s normal rhythm.

  • Accessibility: The placement of AEDs in public spaces is crucial for their effectiveness. By strategically placing AEDs in public areas such as airports, stadiums, schools, and office buildings, communities significantly increase the chances of survival in the event of a SCA. Time is of the essence, and the accessibility of AEDs can bridge the gap between the onset of cardiac arrest and the arrival of professional medical assistance.
  • Education: The effectiveness of AEDs doesn’t solely depend on their presence; it also relies on public awareness and education. Training programs aimed at teaching basic CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and AED operation are invaluable. When individuals are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to act in an emergency, lives are saved.
  • Innovation: As technology advances, so does the potential of AEDs to save lives. Innovations such as smartphone apps that locate nearby AEDs, coupled with real-time cardiac monitoring systems, enhance the efficiency of emergency response.

In the journey to save lives, accessibility, education, and innovation are our greatest allies. Together, let’s continue to champion the widespread adoption of Public Access AEDs, ensuring that no matter where or when a cardiac emergency strikes, someone is always ready to make a difference.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]