cardiac emergency action plan for school

Standardized Response Protocol for Sudden Cardiac Events in Educational Facilities

Document Control

• Document ID: SOP-EMER-001
• Version: 1.0
• Effective Date: [__________]
• Review Cycle: Annual / Post-Incident

1. Purpose & Scope

This document establishes the mandated response sequence for managing suspected sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) on the premises of [School Name]. This procedure applies to all faculty, administrative staff, and authorized personnel present during [School Hours/Operating Window].

2. Prerequisites

• Equipment: Automated External Defibrillator (AED) located at [Insert Location].
• Communication: Dedicated emergency phone line or radio channel: [__________].
• Access: Universal key/fob access for emergency responders to [Main Entrance/Gate].
• Documentation: Incident Report Form (Form ID: [__________]).

3. Roles & Responsibilities (RACI)

Key: R=Responsible, A=Accountable, C=Consulted, I=Informed

4. Step-by-Step Procedure

Phase I: Detection and Assessment

• Verify scene safety for responders.
• Determine responsiveness by shouting and tapping the individual.
• Assess breathing and pulse for no more than 10 seconds.
• If unresponsive and not breathing (or only gasping), initiate protocol.

Phase II: Activation of Emergency Services

• Assign a specific individual to call [Local Emergency Number, e.g., 911].
• Provide exact location: [School Address and Specific Room/Area].
• Assign a staff member to meet EMS at [Designated Entrance Point].
• Retrieve the AED immediately.

Phase III: Intervention

• Start high-quality chest compressions (100–120 bpm) at the center of the chest.
• Power on the AED immediately upon arrival.
• Follow all voice prompts from the AED device.
• Continue compressions without interruption until the AED advises a shock or EMS takes over.

Phase IV: Post-Incident Management

• Transfer care to EMS personnel upon arrival.
• Secure the AED and replace pads/battery as required.
• Document the incident using [Form Name].
• Conduct a debriefing session within [Number] hours for involved staff.

5. Quality Assurance, Pro-Tips, and Pitfalls

• QA: Conduct quarterly "AED dry-runs" to ensure staff familiarity with device location and voice prompts.
• Pro-Tip: Ensure the AED is stored in a location that is not locked during school hours.
• Common Pitfall: Delaying the start of chest compressions while waiting for the AED to be retrieved. Never delay compressions.
• Common Pitfall: Failing to clear the victim when the AED is analyzing or delivering a shock.

6. FAQs

Q: How often should the AED be inspected? A: The device status indicator should be checked weekly, and a formal log must be maintained monthly to ensure battery and pad expiration dates are current.

Q: Can a staff member be held liable for using an AED? A: Most jurisdictions provide "Good Samaritan" protections for individuals acting in good faith to provide emergency care. Consult [Legal Counsel Name] for specific local statutes.