The Observer, April 13, 2007
Volume XXXIX, Issue 24
Average person can provide needed medical assistance
click to enlarge
In several buildings around the Case campus, medical help is now closer than a phone call away.
With the installation of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in high-traffic areas, anyone can help save the life of a victim of sudden cardiac arrest.
The project was guided by the university's Wellness Initiative, Case EMS, and several employees in order to provide members of the campus community with the ability to assist in cardiac emergencies.
"We felt it was an investment in the value of our community members," said Alan Pollack, a research assistant in the biology department.
The AEDs are simple to use, even without any special training. "At the most basic level, if you can read and understand the emergency card in an airliner, you can operate an AED," said Pollack.
However, training sessions will be offered to give those interested a way to better recognize the symptoms of a cardiac emergency and become less nervous about using the device in a stressful situation.
The first step in using the defibrillator is still to call Protective Services at 368-3333 to get an emergency response team sent to the site. Then the defibrillator can be used following the directions printed on the device.
People using the AED need not worry about using the device incorrectly.
"The AED is programmed to monitor heart rhythms and determine whether shock is necessary. It will not provide shock to someone who is not in cardiac emergency," said Pollack. "The design of the AED makes it extremely unlikely that it could harm someone."
Even so, the devices should not be used carelessly as playthings. The next step of the installation will involve wiring the cabinets to central dispatch so that a police team can be sent to the location immediately.
"These are not toys. They are expensive and need to be available and functional if there is an actual emergency requiring use," said Pollack.
The AED initiative is intended to provide skills that can be put to use on and off campus.
"AEDs are now becoming common in shopping malls, churches, theatres, and other locations where large public crowds gather. Knowing about the device and how to use it can help save a life in many places," said Pollack.
Knowing how to use the device can help people in more ways than one.
"If people feel empowered, they can make a big difference," said David Schechtman, a member of EMS.
Further information about cardiac emergencies can be found at the American Heart Association's website, http://www.americanheart.org.
