When it comes to ensuring safe and healthful work conditions, we tend to focus on finding and fixing commonly recognized hazards that may lead to preventable injuries and illnesses. While these risks certainly warrant our attention, there’s an unexpected danger lurking in thousands of homes and workplaces: Cardiac Arrest.

Clay Humane took advantage of the fact that June was CPR Awareness Month, with the first few days designated as National CPR and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Awareness Week. Both occasions were designed to bring attention to the importance of CPR and AED training that organizations can provide to keep their employees safe, prepared to respond and…alive. Trained employees who can properly and quickly respond to out-of-hospital cardiac arrests before emergency responders arrive can save lives.

Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, at any time — including during routine activities. Additionally, this type of medical emergency doesn’t just happen to middle-aged adults or the elderly.

We were reminded of this fact a year and a half ago, when our own Dr. Chris Broadhurst’s son, Riley, just 17, collapsed less than 900 feet from his home. Riley experienced a heart attack while on a routine run. Fortunately, he was resuscitated with cardiopulmonary resuscitation by quick acting neighbors, aka, his hero warriors.

As this topic is one close to his heart, Dr. Broadhurst coordinated AED training and an AED machine installation at Clay Humane. “The more awareness there is and the more we are prepared the more lives can be saved. My family will never forget how lucky we were that day because quick acting, CPR-trained people stepped in to help Riley.”  It has become a mission of the Broadhurst family to promote CPR and AED training and to get more AED machines in area businesses.

Our AED machine was provided through the efforts of the Clay County Public Safety Community Paramedicine Program. This valuable program provides, peer support, family education, medication assisted therapy, resource referrals, community Narcan distribution, training and medical equipment.

Why Businesses Should Prioritize CPR and AED Training

1. Faster Response Times Save Lives:
   Immediate CPR and AED use can greatly increase the chances of surviving sudden cardiac arrest.
   ‍
2. Wider Impact:
   Life-saving skills don’t just stay on site; they benefit the entire community.
   ‍
3. Empowerment Through Preparedness:
   Equipped with confidence and training, individuals can step into action during emergencies without hesitation.

The average response time for first responders once 911 is called is 8-12 minutes. For each minute defibrillation is delayed, the chance of survival reduces by approximately 10%. Fortunately, with CPR/AED training, you can gain the skills necessary to help save a life.

One of the biggest barriers to action during an emergency is fear. AED training helps overcome this fear by providing hands-on experience and reinforcing that quick action is essential. Training also helps individuals remain calm under pressure and trust their ability to use an AED effectively. Workplaces, schools, and public spaces benefit greatly from having trained people ready to respond.

Thank you to the Community Paramedicine team for their outreach program that is making a difference.

‍