COVID Updated Algorithms for CPR and AED Use

Health Authorities and Associations throughout the Caribbean have updated their CPR and AED recommendations following the Coronavirus Pandemic. Download & print the new algorithms for BLS, ACLS, and PALS by scrolling down or clicking here. Find resources for in-country training and education below or click here.

The Heart Foundation of Jamaica and the American Heart Association are advising members of the public, particularly those trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to observe the changes in guidelines when administering the procedure in the coronavirus (COVID-19) era.

Dr. Wong, head of the Accident & Emergency Department of Kingston Public Hospital, explained that that the new recommendation for the layperson is to perform chest compressions only.

"Chest compressions-only has been in existence for a long while and has shown to be effective because once you are doing chest compressions, you are moving blood around and there is passive movement of air in and out of the lungs," he explained.

While CPR is being performed, the provider should call for help from an ambulance or other medical team equipped and trained to help.

Dr. Wong said that if an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) is available, it should be applied to the patient once CPR is being administered. (Health Officials Makes Changes in CPR Due to Covid, Loop Jamaica News, October 2020).

The Heart Foundation of Jamaica advocates for the use of AEDs in every setting. In their June 2021 social media campaign, they explain that AED's can help save lives everywhere, even in the home. They go on to say that AEDs can be used on everyone, and can play a life-saving role in schools, gyms, sports clubs, factories, and offices. (Heart Foundation Jamaica June 2021)

AEDs like Nihon Kohden's Cardolife AED enable anyone to save a life, enabling rapid response and extreme ease of use in any setting. Its intuitive design and voice instruction simplifies and accelerates the delivery of defibrillation. The Cardiolife AED also allows the shock energy to be lowered for child patients while using the same pads. Analysis of the heart rhythm and charging during CPR enables faster defibrillation delivery. The AED performs automatic self-tests daily, and alerts are sent remotely. It's remote communication also allows for its resuscitation data to be stored and transferred wirelessly.