CO2 and aerosol concentration during manual and mechanical chest compression while cardiopulmonary resuscitation

Abstract

Background: This study investigates the staff-to-staff transmission risk of Coronavirus disease 2019 during cardiopulmonary resuscitation in an ambulance vehicle. Methods: Comparing manual and mechanical chest compressions, CO2 concentrations were monitored as a proxy for infection risk. Results: Results suggest that mechanical chest compressions generate lower CO2 levels, indicating a reduced risk of infection among healthcare workers compared to manual compressions. Conclusions: These findings highlight the potential benefits of employing mechanical chest compressions to mitigate staff-to-staff infections in small, confined spaces during aerosol-transmitted diseases.