It’s exciting that we’re on our way to large-scale immunizations and a return to public life. At the same time, many of us have questions about the long-term impacts of the pandemic on society and on individuals. Are COVID-19 survivors at higher risk for cardiac arrest or heart attacks? What precautions should I take if someone needs CPR but I’m afraid of infection? How can people stay protected from COVID-19 while they administer life-saving measures?

Escalation in COVID-19 Related Cardiac Arrest Deaths

Today, the impacts of the pandemic are becoming clearer. They range from higher maternal and infant mortality rates to increased cardiovascular cardiac arrest.

Especially in places where access to healthcare is already limited, lifesaving resources are predictably scarce during epidemics, resulting in disproportionately higher morbidity among marginalized groups.

Administering CPR in the Era of Covid-19

Access to life-saving care in the early moments of a cardiac event is crucial. It’s easy to understand fear of infection during a pandemic. Fortunately, we don’t necessarily have to choose between helping and being safe.

The American Heart Association has provided guidance for administering lifesaving measures during the pandemic. If you witness a person demonstrating symptoms of a cardiac event:

• Make sure there are no other dangers in the area. 
• Limit the number of people near the victim.
• Call for help: Get someone to dial 911 and grab an AED if one is available. If you’re alone with the victim, call before you administer any care. Put on your own mask (and other relevant personal protective gear) first! 
• Provide CPR with compressions and breaths (if you’re comfortable) appropriate to the age and size of the victim.
• If you are not able to or not comfortable providing breaths, use hands-only CPR. 
• Engage an available AED as soon as possible.
• Provide care until relieved or the victim recovers normal function.

The Role of the AED in COVID-19 Related Cardiac Arrest

In the workplace, we’re not talking about strangers. Some might say that makes the stakes feel higher. In any case, you have at least two available resources for saving lives at work:

1. Good training
2. A good AED & AED program

The CPR steps above help trained personnel do a good job, and there is no replacement for training. AEDs have at least two advantages, though.

First, AEDs are deliberately set up for ease of use and provide audible directions to the user. That’s not a replacement for training, but it is a great way to help someone feel in control under pressure. And, it does make important life saving action possible for the untrained person.

Second, it puts the citizen responder in a position where s/he will not share air with the victim, which will potentially put the caregiver in a safer position while administering aid. In addition, it can make him or her feel more comfortable about providing lifesaving care at a time when we’re being told, rightly, to keep distant. 

CPR Precautions 

All of that probably feels a little abstract. What can we do to take care of ourselves and those we’re close to, especially if they have conditions that make them susceptible to COVD-19s biological or sociological consequences?

In addition to the common steps prescribed by the American Heart Association, people at higher risk because of a prior stroke or heart condition can do a few extra things to set up for success.

If you live alone, put a list of your support network where it’s easy for you or an emergency responder to find. This should include close friends, family members, and your health care team.

Don’t be afraid to call 911 if you have symptoms of a  heart attack or stroke. Those people want to help, and they are taking precautions for you and for themselves to be safe. 

And, if you or someone in the house display symptoms of COVID-19, contact your primary care provider. If you test positive, take appropriate precautions to keep un-infected people in the home safe.

Remember- times are uncertain, but we can still safely help someone in need, and every minute counts! If you would like help with your organization’s AED program, get information here or contact us here.

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