Article Notes
Also worth considering, is the impact that CPR and external compressions may have on undermining the effective protection of PPE, given that CPR is a uniquely dynamic and physical activity compared to most medical procedures.
Using simulation studies, Hwang et al. have already brought into question the effectiveness of N95 masks during CPR:
N95 respirator masks may not provide adequate protection during chest compressions, even when resuscitators have passed quantitative fit testing.
Some of the assertions in this review are challengable, and based upon sources with lesser certainty than suggested. For example:
"COVID-19 is predominantly caused by contact or droplet transmission..." - Cook
Yet the reference for this is a Public Health England statement describing this as an 'assumption' without evidence. In contrast there is now considerable debate as to the significance of airborne COVID-19 transmission.
"The transmission of COVID-19 is thought to occur mainly through respiratory droplets generated by coughing and sneezing, and through contact with contaminated surfaces. The predominant modes of transmission are assumed to be droplet and contact." – Public Health England
Because PPE recommendations are based upon this assumption, caution is still required.