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OSU Police install automated external defibrillators in campus patrol units

Thursday, September 3, 2015

Automated external defibrillators are now available in each campus patrol unit at OSU.

Oklahoma State University Police implemented automated external defibrillators in each police unit on campus last month in order to provide potentially lifesaving treatment to victims of cardiac arrest.

OSU Police implemented the equipment one month ago. The decision was prompted by an emergency over the summer involving an individual suffering from a heart attack on campus.           

“Over the summer, several OSU police officers were involved in performing lifesaving CPR on a person who had suffered from a heart attack,” said Leon Jones, OSU Police captain. “LifeNet arrived on scene and used an AED to aid in the CPR.”

OSU chief public safety officer Michael Robinson decided AEDs would be a great resource for OSU police officers to have in their patrol units to better assist individuals on campus, Jones said.           

AEDs are used on individuals suffering from Sudden Cardiac Arrest, a potentially fatal condition when a person’s heart suddenly stops beating and blood flow to the brain and other organs is cut off, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute’s website.           

An AED is used in combination with CPR. The attached electrodes examine the victim’s heartbeat and will employ an electric shock if the heartbeat is determined to be abnormal, according to HeartSine’s website. This shock disrupts the individual’s heartbeat so it can return to normal.      

The AED has an automated system that guides the operator through the entire process, Jones said.     

“It is important to know that the AED does not take place of CPR,” he said. “It is there to assist.”           

OSU police officers undergo biennial training and certification, abiding by American Heart Association requirements to maintain up-to-date knowledge of AEDs, Jones said.           

Jones said it would be great for students to learn how to operate AEDs.

“We would encourage everyone to get CPR/AED certified,” Jones said. “You never know if or when you may need it.”

If a person sees another individual collapse, he or she should call 911 immediately if the affected individual is unresponsive, Jones said. The person who dials 911 should be prepared to answer questions regarding whether or not the affected individual is conscious, breathing and/or has a pulse. 

In addition to campus patrol units, AEDs are also located in high-traffic areas such as Gallagher Iba Arena and the Seretean Wellness Center.

For more information regarding placement of AEDs on campus, contact the OSU Department of Environmental Health and Safety.

Story by Rachel Metzger

PHOTOS: https://www.flickr.com/photos/ostatenews/albums/72157657694867049

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