Compression only CPR
As a precaution the Resuscitation Council UK have provided updated advice:
Check if they need CPR by looking for absence of signs of life and normal breathing.
Do not listen or feel for breathing by placing your ear and cheek close to the persons mouth. If you are unsure, assume they are absent.
Call 999 as soon as possible.
If a coronavirus infection is suspected, tell them when you call 999.
Give chest compressions: push firmly downwards in the middle of the chest and then release.
If you think there is a risk of infection, responders should place a cloth / towel / Fluid Resistant Surgical Masks (FRSM) over the victim’s mouth and nose and attempt compression only CPR until the ambulance arrives.
Wash your hands
After performing compression-only CPR, you should wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water; alcohol-based hand gel can be used if this isn’t available. You should also seek advice from the NHS 111 coronavirus advice service.
If treating a baby or child, the importance of calling an ambulance and taking immediate action cannot be stressed highly enough.
It is likely that you will know them already and we accept that doing rescue breaths will increase the risk of transmitting the coronavirus, either to the rescuer or the child but the risk is small compared to the risk of taking no action.
