| ANNAPOLIS, MD (March 6, 2000) - Starting today, automated external defibrillators (AED), portable devices that can increase the likelihood of survival for victims of sudden cardiac arrest, are available for use by Department of General Services (DGS) police officers and building guards in Annapolis. The laptop-sized devices shock the heart back into a normal rhythm.
The Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS), provided the portable AEDs for use in State House complex government buildings. DGS police officers and building guards have been trained in the use of the defibrillators and will respond to cardiac emergencies.
"This proactive step ensures the well being of State employees, our legislators, and the hundreds of citizens who are in these buildings every day," said DGS Secretary Peta N. Richkus.
Studies have shown that each minute that passes without a shock after sudden cardiac arrest, lowers the victim's chance of survival 10 percent. DGS Police officers usually arrive at the scene of a medical call within two minutes of being dispatched, and beat emergency medical personnel to the scene nearly 90 percent of the time. Fifty-four DGS Police officers and building guards (20 officers/34 building guards) have received AED training. The DGS (www.dgs.state.md.us) officers and building guards are also CPR certified.
According to health experts, sudden cardiac arrest is usually caused by underlying heart disease. A person's heart goes into a chaotic rhythm called ventricular fibrillation. The heart quivers uncontrollably and can't effectively pump blood. This is different from a heart attack, in which an obstructed artery blocks blood flow to the heart. CPR will help circulate blood and oxygen to the vital organs, but it's only a stopgap. The heart's rhythm must be restored to normal using a defibrillator.
"There are four critical components to a successful cardiac resuscitation: early access and recognition of an emergency situation, early CPR, early defibrillation (in this case AED), and early advanced life support intervention to stabilize the patient," according to Dr. Richard L. Alcorta, State Emergency Medical Services Medical Director at MIEMSS. "The DGS AED program is an excellent example of timely delivery of a critical intervention."
The portable defibrillators have simple instructions and announce directions in a mechanical voice. The devices analyze the person's heart rhythm, advise whether to deliver the shock and whether to continue CPR. Training takes about four hours.
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CONTACT:
Dave Humphrey, Director of External Affairs
DGS Office of External Affairs
410-767-4652
E-MAIL: Dave.Humphrey@dgs.state.md.us
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