American Heart Association releases new CPR guidelines on how to save patients with COVID-19

American Heart Association releases new CPR guidelines on how to save patients with COVID-19

New CPR protocols were released by the American Heart Association on Monday, January 24, 2022.

The new protocols are aimed at helping lifesavers perform CPR and other techniques on patients with COVID-19. The American Heart Association partnered with its collaborating organizations including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Association for Respiratory Care, the American Society of Anesthesiologists, and the Society of Critical Care Anesthesiologists.

Dr. Comilla Sasson, a Vice President with the American Heart Association said the updated protocols are recommended by different national and international organizations.

“This guidance also reflects the recommendations issued recently from both the World Health Organization and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,” Dr. Sasson said.

Cynthia Keely, the Quality Improvement Manager with the American Heart Association said these new guidelines are temporary and change as new information about COVID-19 becomes available.

“The American Heart Association works with volunteers throughout the nation and internationally as well as the World Health Organization. As soon as new information comes to light, and something else is made particularly clear, then we will probably put out additional interim guidance,” Keely said.

The interim guidelines will be taught in current and upcoming classes.