Preparedness of primary health care practices for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: a cross-sectional study of training, equipment, and cardiac arrest experience in a large Polish metropolitan area

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) constitutes a major public health problem. Although the occurrence of OHCA in primary health care (PHC) settings has not been well characterized, PHC personnel may be required to provide immediate resuscitation to patients experiencing cardiac arrest within the practice, in its immediate surroundings Consequently, organizational preparedness of PHC practices represents an important component of the early chain of survival and patient safety. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between May and July 2025 among all PHC practices ( n = 217) in Poznań and Poznań County, Poland. Data were collected via structured interviews using a standardized questionnaire, with partial visual verification of equipment ( n = 104). The survey assessed OHCA exposure, basic life support (BLS) training, and equipment availability. Associations were analyzed using chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests and multivariable logistic regression. A total of 177 complete responses were obtained (81.6%). OHCA events in the previous 10 years were reported by 40.0% of county and 28.9% of urban practices. BLS training had been conducted in 26.3% and 14.4% of practices, respectively, and within the last two years in only 10.0% and 5.2%. Automated external defibrillators were available in 43.8% of county and 32.0% of urban practices. Airway management equipment was limited: supraglottic airway devices were available in 12.5% and 2.1% of practices, suction devices in 17.5–18.8%, and oxygen sources in 11.3–17.5%. In multivariable analyses, reported BLS training was associated with greater availability of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and supraglottic airway devices. As exposure and outcome were assessed concurrently, the temporal sequence and directionality of these associations could not be established. Preparedness of PHC practices for OHCA management is insufficient. Limited equipment availability and low BLS training rates may compromise timely, guideline-concordant care. Updating minimum equipment standards and implementing regular training programs are warranted.