Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Kids: Would Your Child's School Know What to Do?

If a child collapsed at practice today, would the adults nearby know exactly what to do in the next 3 minutes?

Pediatric emergency physician Dr. Emily Greenwald talks with Danielle Sturkey, a pediatric cardiac electrophysiology nurse practitioner and program coordinator for Project ADAM North Carolina, about sudden cardiac arrest in kids and teens. It's rare, but it's real, and it doesn't only happen at big games. It can happen at practice, in gym class, at recess, or on the walk home. When the people nearby are prepared, lives are saved.

In this episode:

• Why sudden cardiac arrest is not a heart attack
• What it can look like: sudden collapse, gasping breaths, even seizure-like movements
• The 3-minute rule, and why every minute without a shock matters
• How to use an AED: turn it on, then do exactly what it says
• Why an AED won't shock someone who doesn't need it
• Why having an AED on campus isn't the same as being ready
• What heart screening can and can't tell you about your child's risk

Dr. Emily's Prescription: ask your child's school and sports team these 3 questions

1. Where is the nearest AED, and can someone get it anywhere on campus within 3 minutes?
2. Who here is trained in CPR and AED use?
3. Do you have a written cardiac emergency plan, and do you practice real drills?

Resources
Project ADAM (find an affiliate near you): https://www.projectadam.com
Dr. Emily on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dremilygreenwald/
Website: https://activeplayeveryday.com

If this episode helped, please share it with a coach, teacher, or another parent. It could help save a life.

Thanks for listening! If this episode helped your family, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. It's the best way to help other parents find the show.

Active Play, Every Day is sponsored by Nex Playground. The controller-free console and Play Pass subscription offer 60+ active games for kids and adults, including Bluey: Bust a Move, Barbie Dance Party, NFL FLAG Heroes, and Sonic Forces Rival Rush, with new games and updates every month. Learn more at Nex Playground.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.