(Updated 24/03/2020)
Dear Partner,
Following the announcement of the Prime Minister on 23/3/20, we have updated our guidance re community defibrillators (cPADs).
As you will be aware there is a concern about the spread of Coronavirus in the UK. Part of the steps being taken to reduce the spread and likelihood of infection is self-isolation and the cleaning of hands and surfaces, and also reducing the potential for contact amongst people.
The following video by the BBC is particularly useful and informative:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/embed/p085llls/51787238
This will impact upon your community. We have already postponed all group presentations, and community training and awareness seminars until further notice. Many of our trainers are themselves healthcare workers and may also be called in at short notice to assist in the treatment of patients. We will continue with installations/deliveries of defibrillators where possible.
One of the questions we are being asked is whether the defibrillator equipment should continue to be checked?
Yes. Checking a medical device is considered an essential journey.
These are medical devices and must be kept in a ready state to be used. This involved regular checks and where required replacements electrodes/batteries/rescue kits etc. We accept that the regularity of checks may change but please check whenever possible and when passing. Checks should be undertaken on average weekly, but not more than a month apart.
In addition, may we also suggest that these additional steps are taken as part of your checks on the defibrillator equipment:
- Wear disposable or washable gloves
- Clean the cabinets/wall rack and contents with an anti-bacterial wipe, or a mild solution of soap and bleach using a damp (not wet) cloth.
- Clean the actual defibrillator similarly, again using a damp cloth, not wet.
- Dry both using disposable towel or tissues if required.
- If you have an emergency 999 telephone, this will also need wiping down.
- Dispose of the cloth and any disposable gloves afterwards (reusable gloves wash with soap/bleach)
- Wash your hands
If your defibrillator is co-located with a book exchange in a kiosk, then we suggest removing the books for the period of this crisis, and also cleaning the kiosk regularly, particularly the door handle.
For more information please do look at the NHS 111 website, and if you feel unwell, contact 111, and do not attend any community training or awareness sessions.
Thank you for your understanding at this time.