In the latest edition of The Evidence newsletter, Josephine Lethbridge delves into a topic that has long been overlooked in the field of CPR training – gender bias in CPR dummies. As we strive towards a more inclusive and equal society, it is crucial to address and rectify such biases, even in seemingly mundane aspects of our lives.
CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a life-saving technique that is taught to individuals in order to provide emergency assistance to someone experiencing cardiac arrest. It involves performing chest compressions and rescue breaths to keep the person’s blood and oxygen circulating until professional medical help arrives. However, what many people may not realize is that the CPR training equipment used to teach this technique may not accurately represent the diverse population it is meant to serve.
Lethbridge highlights the fact that most CPR dummies used in training are designed to resemble a male body, with a flat chest and no breasts. This may seem like a minor detail, but it can have significant implications in real-life situations. As Lethbridge points out, women are less likely to receive CPR in an emergency, and even when they do, they are less likely to survive. This is due to a combination of factors, including hesitation to touch a woman’s chest and a lack of confidence in performing CPR on a female body.
The lack of diversity in CPR training equipment is not a new issue. In fact, it has been a topic of discussion for years, with some organizations advocating for the inclusion of female CPR dummies. However, progress has been slow, and the majority of CPR training programs still use male dummies. This is not only a disservice to women but also to men who may have different body types and require different techniques when performing CPR.
One of the main arguments against using female CPR dummies is the cost. It is often claimed that creating and manufacturing different types of dummies would be too expensive. However, Lethbridge argues that this is a short-sighted view. The cost of not addressing this issue is much higher – in terms of lives lost and the perpetuation of gender bias in emergency situations. As she puts it, “Can we really put a price on someone’s life?”
Moreover, the lack of diversity in CPR training equipment also has implications for the LGBTQ+ community. As Lethbridge points out, there are no CPR dummies that accurately represent transgender or non-binary individuals. This further highlights the need for more inclusive and diverse training equipment.
It is also worth noting that the use of male CPR dummies perpetuates the stereotype that men are the ones who should take charge in emergency situations. This can be damaging to both men and women, as it reinforces gender roles and expectations. By using female CPR dummies, we can break down these stereotypes and promote a more equal and inclusive society.
So why haven’t we seen more progress in this area? Lethbridge suggests that it may be due to a lack of awareness and education. Many people may not even realize that there is a gender bias in CPR training equipment. This is why it is crucial to continue the conversation and raise awareness about this issue.
In addition, Lethbridge calls for action from organizations and institutions that provide CPR training. They have a responsibility to ensure that their training is inclusive and representative of the diverse population they serve. This can be achieved by using a variety of CPR dummies, including female, male, and non-binary options.
It is also important for individuals to educate themselves and advocate for change. If you are taking a CPR training course, ask your instructor about the diversity of the dummies used. If they are only using male dummies, speak up and suggest the use of female dummies as well. By taking small steps, we can collectively make a big difference.
In conclusion, the lack of diversity in CPR training equipment is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed. It is not just about having a more accurate representation of the population, but also about saving lives and promoting equality. Let us all work towards a more inclusive and equal society, starting with something as simple as CPR dummies with breasts. As Lethbridge says, “It’s time to put the ‘life’ back in life-saving.”