There are three important differences from prior to Covid-19 era.
The HSE has issued updated advice on how to perform CPR due to Covid-19.
People are being advised against mouth to mouth resuscitation, and are being asked to do chest compressions only.
A defibrillator should be used as soon as possible if there is one available.
Professor Cathal O'Donnell, Medical Director of the National Ambulance Service, says everyone's safety must now be protected while carrying out CPR.
There are three important differences from prior to Covid-19 era'', he said. ''One is don't listen or feel for breathing by placing your ear close to the patients mouth.
''The second one is to perform chest compression only, and not to do mouth-to-mouth.
''And the third is to place a cloth over the patients mouth and nose.
''When you do dial 999, the ambulance or call taker will talk you through all of those''.
