In today’s update:
- Latest PPE guidance for all cardiac arrests following changes to the RCUK guidance as of 10th August 2022
Latest PPE guidance for all cardiac arrests following changes to the RCUK guidance as of 10th August 2022:
- Following recognition of a Cardiac Arrest, rescuer to commence chest compression only CPR wearing and FFP3 Mask, visor, plastic apron and gloves whilst awaiting for help to arrive
- First responder to attach defib pads and deliver shocks if indicated, once AED/Defib is passed into room/bay. First responder to recommence chest compressions whilst waiting for the emergency teams arrival.
- Once emergency team has arrived and donned gloves, FFP3 mask, visor and plastic apron (note: long sleeved gown only needed if the patient has a known respiratory infection), first responder to step out of the room prior to any ventilation/intubation/suction or any other AGPs are performed.
No more than 5 team members to enter a room or bay whilst a cardiac arrest is in progress
· Cardiac Arrest Trolley MUST stay outside the room – only defibrillator and pads to be taken into the room
· One person to stay with the trolley outside the room as “Gatekeeper” wearing a surgical mask, plastic apron, gloves and eye protection.
· The Gatekeeper must ensure emergency team don on gloves, FFP3 mask, visor and plastic apron (note: long sleeved gown only needed if the patient has a known respiratory infection), before entering the room and continuing advanced resuscitation including AGPs e.g. Intubation. Full PPE x 5 stored in grab bag attached to the arrest trolley and in ward clean utility room
· The Gatekeeper is responsible for passing items from the trolley into the room as required by finger-tip
· Disposable equipment must not leave the room until bagged for disposal
· Blood samples are to be placed in a blue bag held by an external member (not the gatekeeper) they will complete a requisition form if required. In the case of ABGs this person (someone who can do ABG testing) should take the ABG sample to the nearest ABG machine available to carry out the testing wearing gloves
· Non-disposable equipment – defibrillator, leads etc must be cleaned as per IPC instructions immediately to ensure equipment is available ASAP
Please direct any questions relating to the above cardiac arrest procedure and guidance to paul.craven@sthk.nhs.uk