"Shrink back is not my intention": a qualitative exploration of Chinese security guards' experiences with bystander...

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is a major public health burden worldwide. Promoting bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (B-CPR) is a key element in improving the survival rate of OHCA. The security guard is a specific population in China that plays a significant role as bystanders in public settings. However, less is known about their experiences regarding B-CPR intention and performance. This study aimed to explore the experiences and perspectives of Chinese security guards regarding B-CPR and identify barriers to its performance.

Fifteen in-depth interviews were conducted with security guards in various public settings, including hospitals, residential living areas, office buildings, and public transportation stations. All interviews were audio recorded. Two researchers independently analyzed the transcripts through deductive and inductive content analysis. Informed by the "Intention-focused" model of B-CPR performance, deductive content analysis was initially performed to identify categories that align with the theoretical framework and thereby validate the theory. Subsequently, inductive content analysis was applied to code newly discovered content, therefore enriching the theory.

An "intention & performance-focused" model of B-CPR was developed. It was revealed that security personnel were more inclined to perform CPR without hesitation when the victim was a trusted individual. However, when faced with unfamiliar individuals, they tended to shrink back due to various barriers. Specifically, four layers of barriers to CPR performance were identified, encompassing security personnel factors, victim-related factors, organizational factors, and societal factors. Participants also shared their perspectives on the desired CPR training, including trainers, training contents, training formats, and training incentives.

Security guards should receive comprehensive CPR training to maximize their occupational value. In addition to strengthening CPR-related training, which includes theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice, psychological coping skills for managing overwhelming emotions and understanding relevant laws are also essential training elements that cannot be overlooked. When developing relevant intervention strategies, policies, and regulations, it's critical to consider the country's context and the cooperation of the organization where the security guard is employed. The model developed in this study can provide a reference for designing interventions and policy to improve the B-CPR intention and performance for other specific groups.