Abstract
AIM: To describe obstacles and ideas for improvement for the delivery of cardiopulmonary resuscitation and basic life support to wheelchair users. DESIGN: A descriptive qualitative study underpinned by constructivism was conducted. METHODS: Semi structured interviews were completed with 26 participants from three cohorts: formal and informal carers, wheelchair users and healthcare professionals. Data were collected via online and in person interviews between February and June 2024. All participants were located in Australia, with the exception of one who was located in the United Kingdom. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: Two major themes were identified: (1) obstacles to providing cardiopulmonary resuscitation and basic life support to a wheelchair user and (2) aspirations for improving cardiopulmonary resuscitation and basic life support for wheelchair users. CONCLUSION: Participants shared ideas for how to improve emergency care for wheelchair users, highlighting a need for further research, testing and development of an education intervention. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE: Improving knowledge about providing emergency care to a wheelchair user could improve outcomes, save lives and reduce the life expectancy gap experienced by people with disability. IMPACT: Approximately 2% of the global population use a wheelchair. Wheelchair use complicates the delivery of cardiopulmonary resuscitation and basic life support. There are currently no guidelines informing emergency care for wheelchair users available globally. Recognition of common symptoms of distress exhibited by wheelchair users, and options for the delivery of practical emergency care are required for wheelchair users. REPORTING METHOD: The paper adheres to the EQUATOR reporting guidelines utilising the SRQR checklist. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: Patients and the public were the driving force in recognising the gap in knowledge regarding the delivery of CPR to wheelchair users. Questions from patients and the public shaped the aims and methodological choices for this study.