NPC Invests In Student Safety
National Park College (NPC) invested $37,809.72 in automated external defibrillators
(AED) for student safety. Twenty-two AED units, along with storage and signage for
the devices were recently purchased.
AEDs are used to help those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. They are easy-to-use
medical devices that can analyze the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an
electrical shock or defibrillation to help the heart reestablish an effective rhythm.
Campus nurse Miki Smith said, “We had to replace nine of our existing AEDs. We also
wanted to provide more coverage across campus. More AEDs across campus means better
outcomes for our staff, faculty, and students. We were able to add seven additional
AEDs to campus, including another one to the south side of campus.”
Five AEDs will travel with the NPC athletic teams, one will be provided to campus
security, and the remainder will be placed in 17 buildings across campus.
“We chose to upgrade to Zoll AED Plus for several reasons. These machines are used
by LifeNet, which allows them to use the pads we apply leading to a quicker transfer
to the hospital. Also, they can download information from our machines to provide
medical care with additional information,” said Associate Vice President of Campus
Operations, Brad Hopper.
Hopper added, “Approximately 50% of the time the cardiac event is not shockable. Zoll
AED Plus not only shocks the heart, but also monitors cardiopulmonary resuscitation
(CPR) in progress. This delivers the CPR providers real-time analysis of the CPR being
performed, ensuring proper compression depths and cycle times.”
“One study shows male college basketball players are more likely to die from sudden
cardiac arrest (SCA) than auto accidents, suicides, or homicide. We want to beat that
statistic if an SCA happens at an NPC event,” noted Hopper.
Hopper explained, “We believe Zoll Plus AEDs are an important tool to maximize the
health and safety preparedness at NPC. If needed, this equipment will make a difference
in the quality of care provided to the individual, thereby improving their chance
of survival.”
Pictured is Miki Smith with an AED device.
