Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation in practice

Cardio-respiratory arrest is rare within dental practices (Resuscitation Council (UK), 2013), however, it can occur at any time before, during or after treatment and may even happen to the carer/escort and not the patient themselves. The General Dental Council (GDC) requires that ‘all registrants are trained in dealing with medical emergencies, including resuscitation and possess up-to-date evidence of capability’ (GDC, 2013). General dental practitioners and all other dental healthcare professionals should undergo training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) including basic airway management and the use of an AED: ‘Every care provider should have a plan for cardio-respiratory arrest and summoning an ambulance’ (Resuscitation Council (UK), 2013). There appears to be a common misconception that annual CPR training fulfils the GDC's guidance; however, regular documented medical emergency scenario training, including CPR, not only fulfils the guidance, but also provides the best preparation should a medical emergency occur.