Co-Written with Salvatore Caccavale of Global Hospitality Security Solutions
At some point in their careers, hotel employees may be required to respond to a medical episode in one of the following circumstances:
- Basic first aid (respiratory, wounds, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, assault, slip/fall, etc.)
- Homicide
- Suicide
- Drug overdose
For the non-medical career professional, responding to a medical episode may be unnerving. The COVID-19 pandemic has added to the growing list of concerns of first responders along with the fear of being exposed to opioids—specifically fentanyl. This epidemic has heightened concerns about existing protocols for safely responding to medical episodes in a hotel. Thus, it is crucial to educate hotel employees on reasonable and acceptable practices based on what we know and the proper protective equipment that is available as of this writing.
Primary Responders
Employees who are trained and credentialed in first aid (at least two per shift are suggested) must be the primary responders in the event of medical episodes. First responders should always carry their personal protective equipment on their person while working, consisting of, at a minimum: a (surgical) face mask, latex gloves, and a mouth shield/guard for rescue breathing/CPR. Employees who have an increased likelihood of coming in contact with blood-borne pathogens (e.g., room attendants, engineers, first responders) must be offered the series of hepatitis B vaccinations, free of charge to the employee.
With regard to fentanyl, first responders must be cognizant of any signs of potential drug use by the victim, illicit or prescribed, to protect themselves from potentially fatal contact, either through skin absorption or airborne intake. Wearing PPE prior to coming in contact with the victim offers a layer of protection but does not guarantee the first responder’s personal safety. When there is evidence of fentanyl or other lethal drugs, the first responder must visually and mentally note the condition of the environment and circumstances and immediately back away from the scene to notify and advise local authorities of their findings.
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