A shocking situation

American Fitness, Nov-Dec, 2003 by D.K. Howe

These days automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are routinely placed in airports, public buildings and stadiums, saving countless people who experience sudden cardiac arrest. In support of placing AEDs in schools, Dr. Arnold Fenrich, Baylor College of Medicine associate professor and Texas Children's Hospital cardiologist, says AEDs are a simple way to increase the survival chances of young athletes who experience a life-threatening cardiac event. He recommends schools have two devices--one in the main building and one near the athletic facilities. "We know immediate intervention can save lives and prevent the development of neurological injuries that can occur," says Fenrich. AED "placement should be sooner rather than later in schools."

AEDs can analyze the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, prompt the user to administer an electric shock to the heart. According to Fenrich, the devices are easy to use, even for middle-school-age students. In fact, he believes training in AED use should be a part of every school's curriculum, along with cardiopulmonary resuscitation. "Studies have shown that sixth-graders can use the device just as effectively as trained medical personnel," he explains.

Sudden cardiac death, an abrupt event in which the heart stops, affects one in 100,000 to 300,000 athletes. There are usually no symptoms of an underlying heart problem and screening techniques cannot detect all conditions that may lead to sudden cardiac death.