Many healthcare providers work close to patients who may be suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19. They also have the highest risk profession for contracting the disease. These modifications were made in an effort to:
- Limit the personnel attending to a patient,
- reduce provider exposure, and
- to encourage bystander CPR with an emphasis on providing at least hands-only chest compressions.
Healthcare Provider Adult CPR Update
- Put on PPE before stepping on the scene
- Begin cycles of 30 compressions and 2 rescue breaths.
- Use a bag-mask device with a tight seal and filter when giving rescue breaths OR provide continuous chest compressions with passive oxygenation using a medical/protective mask.
- Use mechanical CPR devices for patients who meet the height/weight requirements to lower aerosolization risk.
Chest Compressions for Adults:
- Perform at least hands-only CPR after a cardiac arrest event has been identified
- A face mask or a cloth that covers the mouth and nose of the healthcare provider and/or victim may reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission to a non-household bystander
Chest Compressions for Children:
- Perform chest compressions and consider mouth-to-mouth ventilation
- A face mask or cloth that covers the mouth and nose of the healthcare provider and/or victim may reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission to a non-household bystander.
