CPR Guidelines During COVID-19 | St. John Ambulance

CPR during COVID-19

Read guidelines to performing CPR during the COVID-19 outbreak.

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Resumption of in-class training - Covid-19

St. John Ambulance is pleased to announce our business resumption plan for in-class training. Starting on May 25, 2020, our Edmonton location will be piloting the in-class training in accordance with the policies and guidance from the Province of Alberta. On June 1, we will continue a phased-in approach across our other 6 locations.

CERTIFICATION CONCESSIONS

In light of current events and the suspension of training caused by the spread of COVID-19, St. John Ambulance, Alberta Council, with authority from Alberta Labour – OHS, will be making concessions on training certification.

Read All the Concessions

CPR Guidelines During COVID-19

Should the need arise to perform CPR during the current COVID-19 pandemic on any individual, the guidelines below should be applied. Please keep in mind that each situation will be unique:

1. The first aider should always protect themselves. This means using the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves and a CPR mask with a one-way valve. We cannot stress the importance of PPE enough in every situation that involves CPR.

2. If the first aider does not feel comfortable breathing into the patient, while using a mask, they are encouraged to perform hands-only CPR.

3. If you are a healthcare provider, follow your local jurisdiction protocols.

It is worth mentioning that COVID-19, while new, is not the only pathogen that a first aider may come across in a first aid situation. Caution should always be exercised when assisting a casualty due to any number of possible pathogens. The use of PPE should be employed whenever possible while performing CPR in any situation.