Critical Importance of AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) in Schools:

The Critical Importance of AEDs in Schools: Why One Isn’t Enough

Introduction
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a life-threatening condition that can affect anyone, anywhere, and at any time—including in schools. While schools are generally considered safe environments, the reality is that having an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) readily available can mean the difference between life and death. Many schools are already recognising the need for AEDs, but having just one device on a large campus might not be sufficient. Quick access is critical in an emergency situation, and large campuses pose unique challenges to AED accessibility.

Why Schools Need AEDs

• Sudden Cardiac Arrest Can Happen to Anyone:
  While we often associate cardiac arrest with older individuals, children and teens can also experience SCA due to conditions like undiagnosed heart problems, arrhythmias, or trauma during sports activities. In fact, SCA remains the leading cause of sudden death in exercising young athletes.
• South Africa’s Growing AED Adoption:
  In South Africa, we’ve seen a large uptake in AED adoption in high schools, particularly within private institutions, while government schools often rely on AED donations. Schools with AED programs are far more likely to have a comprehensive emergency response plan for SCA in place, making them better prepared to respond to life-threatening events.
• Time is Crucial:
  When SCA occurs, every minute counts. For every minute that passes without defibrillation, the chance of survival decreases by 7-10%. Having an AED nearby can significantly improve survival rates, especially if it is used within the first 3-5 minutes of the incident.

Challenges of Large School Campuses

• Distance to AEDs:
  In large schools or campuses with multiple buildings, getting an AED quickly can be a logistical challenge. If an AED is placed in a central location but far from the gymnasium, sports fields, or other high-traffic areas, valuable time is lost as people race to retrieve the device.
• Multiple High-Risk Areas:
  Schools often have several areas where the risk of SCA is higher, such as sports fields, gymnasiums, or even assembly halls. A single AED cannot serve all these locations effectively, especially if they are spread across a large campus. Schools need to assess their layout and strategically place multiple AEDs where they are most needed.
• Access During Events:
  Schools host various events, from sports competitions to assemblies. During these gatherings, having just one AED might not be practical, especially if the event location is far from the AED’s usual placement.

Beyond Defibrillation: A Comprehensive Emergency Action Plan (EAP)
While having AEDs in schools is crucial, being prepared to respond to SCA goes beyond early defibrillation. An adequate emergency response begins with establishing a comprehensive emergency action plan (EAP). This plan should include:

1. Consulting Local Emergency Medical Services (EMS):
   Schools should collaborate with local EMS to ensure that the response system is well-coordinated and efficient.
2. Establishing a Communication System:
   It’s vital to have a robust communication system in place to activate emergency services quickly and effectively. This includes having clear protocols for who calls for help and how.
3. Training in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR):
   School staff, coaches, and anticipated responders should be trained in CPR and AED use. This is key to providing immediate care while waiting for professional medical help.
4. Regular Rehearsals:
   Schools should review and rehearse their emergency response plans regularly to ensure that everyone knows their role and can act quickly in a crisis. High schools with AED programs are more likely to have such rehearsals and reviews, ensuring preparedness.

Recommended AED Placement Strategy
To ensure AEDs are accessible when they’re needed most, consider the following strategies:

1. Strategic Placement:
   AEDs should be placed in areas of high activity, such as gymnasiums, cafeterias, sports fields, and main administrative buildings. Schools should also account for after-hours events like sports games and school dances.
2. Multiple Units:
   Large campuses should have multiple AEDs to ensure that one is always within a 2-3 minute walk, regardless of the size of the school. Having an AED in each key building or area can dramatically increase the chances of saving a life.
3. Clear Signage and Awareness:
   AED locations should be clearly marked with prominent signage, and staff and students should be aware of where AEDs are located and how to use them. Regular drills or awareness programs can ensure that people know how to respond quickly in an emergency.
4. Training and Education:
   While AEDs are designed to be easy to use by anyone, schools should also invest in training staff and older students in CPR and AED use. This will build confidence in responding to emergencies and reduce the panic that often accompanies such situations.

Conclusion: Saving Lives Starts with Preparation
Schools are communities, and it’s the responsibility of those communities to protect the lives of everyone—students, staff, and visitors. Ensuring that multiple AEDs are available across large campuses isn’t just a precaution; it’s a critical step toward saving lives. Investing in additional AEDs, placing them strategically, and establishing a comprehensive emergency action plan (EAP) that involves training and rehearsals will help create a safer environment for all, especially young athletes, where the risk of SCA is most prevalent.

References

1. Clark, T. Critical Role of AEDs in School Emergency Plans – Is Enough Being Done?. Healthy Roster. Available at: Healthy Roster​First Aid Training.comowrap text-token-text-secondary dark:text-token-text-tertiary”>(
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2. Implementing AEDs in Schools: A Comprehensive Guide. First Aid Safety Training. Available at: First Aid SafetyTraining​ (First Aid and Safety Training)