The health and safety of the American CPR Care Association community is critical to us. We want all of you to be prepared and keep up-to-date with the safety information and preventive measures that are released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and other national and local public health agencies regarding the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
During these vulnerable times, we want to encourage everyone to:
Stay informed on the developments of the coronavirus.
Take proactive steps in maintaining a safe and healthy environment within your household, workplace, and community.
Learn the basic procedures of performing first aid. We’ve seen a recent upsurge in First Aid training and education due to the current Coronavirus outbreak. This training may help you keep calm if an emergency arises.
Update your current CPR training. In April 2020 Interim Guidance for how to conduct CPR was released by AHA and other national organizations. These provisions were made to provide more safety for lay responders and healthcare providers who may have to provide CPR to suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients.
It is important to understand the symptoms and risks relating to coronavirus, and the steps you can take to stay healthy to protect yourself from the virus.
COVID-19 Symptoms:
Symptoms may include a cough, fever, and shortness of breath or other respiratory issues. Symptoms usually appear within two to 14 days.
COVID-19 Precautions:
Stay home if you are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Avoid close contact with people who have cold or flu-like symptoms.
Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.
Cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze, and dispose of the used tissue immediately.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or antiseptic wipes.
If you are working in a medical field, are in contact with people who may be ill or are traveling, use personal protective equipment, such as gloves and face masks, to prevent transmission.
When to seek medical help:
Seek medical attention and call in advance if you have a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, and have a recent history of travel to countries where COVID-19 is spreading – such as China, South Korea, Iran, and Italy. Avoid travel unless essential. Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility and prevent the possible spread of the coronavirus.
Conclusion
Additional information about the coronavirus can be found on the CDC website here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/index.html. Contact our professional at American CPR Care Association today!
