Updated Adult, Pediatric, and Neonatal Resuscitation Guidelines in the Age of COVID-19

The update refocuses resuscitation priorities to minimize exposure risks for healthcare workers while providing effective care.

Sponsoring Organization: American Heart Association (AHA)

Background

In the age of COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2, healthcare workers must maintain excellent patient-centered care while minimizing the risk of becoming infected with the virus. Cardiac arrest resuscitation is among the most dangerous patient care scenarios and has the potential to expose many rescuers to aerosol-generating procedures. To minimize this risk, the AHA, in collaboration with several other professional organizations, has released interim guidance on resuscitation priorities and techniques in patients with known or suspected disease.

Key Points

Chest compressions, suctioning, intubation, and positive pressure ventilation are aerosol-generating procedures.
Healthcare workers should…

Reviewing Author

Jason T. McMullan, MD, MS, FAEMS

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardEMCREG International

Grant/Research SupportNIH; Department of Defense

Editorial BoardsJournal of Emergency Medical Services

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesNational Association of EMS Physicians (Chair, Research Committee)