Resuscitation training in small-group setting--gender matters

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
• Emergency Medicine

Background:

• External chest compressions (ECC) are critical in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
• Optimizing Basic Life Support (BLS) training methods and environments is ongoing research.
• The impact of gender composition in learning groups on resuscitation skills requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the influence of gender composition in learning groups on practical skills and retention in resuscitation training.
• To compare the effectiveness of gender-segregated versus mixed-gender training groups for BLS.

Main Methods:

• 251 laypersons without prior medical knowledge were allocated to three groups: all-female (F), all-male (M), and standard mixed-gender (S).
• All groups received standardized BLS training using a 4-step approach.
• Performance on a manikin was assessed before training, after one week, and eight months later, focusing on compression rate (90-110/min) and depth (38-51 mm).

Main Results:

• The all-female group (F) showed significantly better mean compression depth (63%) compared to the standard group (S) (43%) after one week (p=0.02).
• Groups F and S improved their mean compression rate significantly from initial to final assessment (p=0.04).
• Female participants reported greater comfort in the all-female learning environment.

Conclusions:

• Gender-segregated resuscitation training impacts individual performance, with female-only groups exhibiting superior external chest compression skills.
• BLS training in all-female groups may enhance skill acquisition and performance in resuscitation scenarios.