CPR on women can be performed without bra removal, authorities say, as concerns over exposure and physical contact hinder rescue efforts

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency and the Korean Association of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation announced revised Korean CPR guidelines for the first time in 5 years on Thursday.

The updated procedures include attaching external defibrillator pads to women without removing their underwear and providing the two-thumb encircling technique for infants under one year old.

Lee Chang-hee, a professor in the Department of Emergency Medical Services at Namseoul University, demonstrates cardiopulmonary resuscitation for women during a press conference on the new CPR guidelines on Thursday. (Yonhap)
Lee Chang-hee, a professor in the Department of Emergency Medical Services at Namseoul University, demonstrates cardiopulmonary resuscitation for women during a press conference on the new CPR guidelines on Thursday. (Yonhap)

In cases of cardiac arrest involving female patients, rescuers are advised not to unfasten or remove underwear, such as a bra, but instead adjust its position and attach AED pads while avoiding breast tissue. After moving the underwear aside, the pads should be placed between the right collarbone and the nipple, and on the left side of the chest near the rib cage. The renewed recommendation aims to improve AED use rates, which have been lower for female patients due to concerns about bodily exposure and physical contact.

Encircling chest cardiopulmonary resuscitation procedures for infants. (Newsis)
Encircling chest cardiopulmonary resuscitation procedures for infants. (Newsis)

For infants under 1 year old, the guidelines call for encircling the chest with both hands and performing chest compressions using both thumbs.

When the airway is blocked by food or other objects, abdominal thrusts are not recommended for infants under 1, as they are easily exposed to internal organ damage. The revised guidelines suggest delivering five back blows followed by five chest thrusts, specifying that the chest thrusts must use the heel of one hand only.

Five chest thrusts using the heel of one hand. (Newsis)
Five chest thrusts using the heel of one hand. (Newsis)

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