David Shema
In Case of Cardiac Emerceny at the Seattle Program Center
In the event of any cardiac emergency, FIRST CALL 911.
Then, fetch the Philips HeartStart Automated External Defibrillator (AED), now available in the Seattle Program Center near the lobby drinking fountains.
If a second person is available, have them start CPR while you fetch the AED.
If the patient is unresponsive (not be able to talk or respond to you), open the AED and attach it as shown in the diagram inside the device. Just follow the voice prompts and graphics. DON'T HESITATE - SECONDS COUNT!
CPR and rapidly delivered shocks are even more vital to survival than previously realized. Now, new technology allows untrained bystanders to safely deliver shocks to patients in cardiac arrest.
While training is recommended, DON'T HESITATE to act if you have never taken a class. You may be the only chance a person in cardiac arrest has.
The Tacoma Program Center will also be receiving an AED. However, no date has been established. The next time you are at the Seattle Mountaineer building, take a moment to locate the AED for yourself.
Additional Resources:
Training is recommended. Both the American Red Cross, and the American Heart Association, provide training courses in CPR and AED. These courses will give you additional knowledge and increased confidence.
From the American Heart Association: "Push hard and push fast"
NOTE: You do not have to provide breaths.
From the Philips HeartSmart website
This defibrillator provides step-by-step voice instructions, including CPR coaching, to help give you the confidence to treat a cardiac arrest. It automatically determines if a shock is necessary, and provides the right therapy for adults, children, and infants.
Just pull the green handle to activate the defibrillator. Its voice instructions are paced to your actions to help guide you through the entire process - from placing each pad on the patient, to delivering a defibrillation shock, and performing CPR.
