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If someone suffers a sudden cardiac arrest at work, having a defibrillator nearby can make a critical difference. The problem is that not every workplace is the same, and there isn’t one AED that suits every situation. An office with 20 employees has very different needs to a warehouse, construction site or business with staff working across several locations. If you’re looking for the best portable defibrillator, it makes sense to start with how and where it will actually be used. Before comparing models, take a look at your workplace. Where do people spend most of their time? How large is the site? Are there multiple buildings or floors? Do employees regularly travel between locations? If everyone works in one office, a compact AED in a central, clearly marked location may be all you need. A larger workplace may need more than one unit so employees aren’t spending valuable time running across the building to find one. For businesses with mobile teams or multiple work sites, portability becomes even more important. A small portable defibrillator is easier to carry between locations and can be stored in a vehicle or transport case when required. A workplace AED needs to be straightforward. In an emergency, nobody wants to be standing there trying to work out which button does what. Modern AEDs are designed with this in mind, providing clear voice and visual instructions that guide the user through the process. The device analyses the person’s heart rhythm and determines whether a shock is required. The person using it doesn’t need to make that decision themselves. It’s still a good idea to have employees trained in CPR and AED use. Training gives people the confidence to act rather than freeze when something serious happens. If your defibrillator is going to stay in one spot, portability might not be a major concern. However, if it needs to be carried between buildings, taken to events or kept in a work vehicle, size and weight matter. A compact AED is easier to grab and carry when time matters, it can also be easier to store without taking up unnecessary space. That said, the smallest model isn’t automatically the best portable defibrillator. Look at the whole package, including ease of use, durability, battery life and maintenance. Think about where the defibrillator will live. An AED kept inside an airconditioned office won’t have to deal with the same conditions as one used on a construction site or in a warehouse. Dust, moisture, temperature changes and general wear and tear can all affect equipment. If your workplace is particularly tough on equipment, look for a defibrillator designed to handle those conditions. A protective carry case is also worth considering if the AED will be transported regularly. There’s no point having a defibrillator hidden away. Keep it somewhere accessible and use clear signage so employees can find it quickly. Make sure new staff are shown where it is as part of their workplace induction. For larger sites, it can also be useful to have a simple emergency plan that explains where the AED is located and who should retrieve it if someone suffers a cardiac arrest. Don’t Get Distracted by Unnecessary Features There are plenty of AED models available, and it’s easy to get caught up comparing every feature. Instead, focus on what actually matters for your workplace: reliability, ease of use, portability, durability and ongoing support. A small portable defibrillator can be an excellent choice where equipment needs to be moved regularly or storage space is limited. For other workplaces, a larger or more robust model may make more sense. The right choice is the one your team can access quickly, understand easily and keep properly maintained. Get a Defibrillator for Your Workplace Today A workplace defibrillator is there for one reason – to be ready when something goes seriously wrong. Cardiac Defibrillators in Australia supplies the public and healthcare professionals with life-saving automated external defibrillators (AEDs). Our innovative and long warranty defibrillators provide assistance to SCA victims in all walks of life. The FRED PA-1 AED (fully-automatic) by Schiller is the smart choice due to the 10 year warranty (industry leading), long 6 year battery life and 3 year electrode pads. The long life consumables ensures less maintenance and cost of ownership. Get yours online now or call 03 9125 4845 to speak with our friendly staff.

In 2025/26, the NSW Government is stepping up community safety by allocating $500,000 in grants to help grassroots sports clubs and recreation centres install Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). With grants of up to $3,000 per organisation, this program intends to make AED access more widespread – especially in regions with greater need. Why this mattersSudden cardiac arrest can strike anytime, even on the playing field. In these moments, every second counts. An AED used in conjunction with CPR can dramatically improve survival odds. Yet many local clubs lack these devices due to cost or lack of awareness. This grant aims to close that gap. How it works Applicants may receive up to $3,000 to cover the cost of an approved AED package (device, accessories, installation). Grants will be awarded until the funding pool is exhausted or by 1 December 2025. Preference is given to clubs in disadvantaged areas (bottom five SEIFA postcodes) or those with demonstrated financial hardship. Applications are assessed in order of receipt – early submission improves chances of success. Who qualifies? Eligible applicants include: Not‐for‐profit sporting or recreation clubs in NSW Facility owners (e.g. councils, service clubs) that host sporting or active recreation use Organisations that operate or deliver services within eligible postcodes Organisations that can provide financial hardship evidence if they fall outside those postcodes What’s excluded? Schools, universities, P&Cs (unless independently incorporated) For‐profit ventures, individuals, one‐off events NSW government departments or agencies Tips to improve your application Apply early. Grants are first in, first assessed – don’t wait until the deadline. Show clear benefit. Demonstrate how the AED will serve participants, spectators, and the local community. Prepare documents ahead. Gather financials, insurance, statements of support, and your medical emergency plan. Highlight need. If you’re in a region with slower ambulance response times or from a lower SEIFA area, emphasise that. Next steps Start your application via the SmartyGrants portal Consult the program guidelines and check whether your postcode is eligible If successful, invest in a quality AED package and train your staff/volunteers This NSW grant gives local sport and recreation clubs a real opportunity to bring humane safety upgrades to their venues. If there’s a chance to get financial support and install a potentially life‐saving defibrillator, it’s one worth pursuing. Contact us directly for help.

Commit to making your safety a priority | Shocktober   Shocktober is a month-long campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of learning how to use cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and an automated external defibrillator (AED). Each day, approximately 21 Victorians experience a cardiac arrest, with only 10% surviving. Immediate intervention is crucial in these moments. Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood effectively, putting the person’s life at immediate risk. For every minute CPR is delayed, the chances of survival decrease by 10%. However, if CPR and an AED shock are administered before paramedics arrive, the likelihood of survival more than doubles. Restart A Heart Day on 16 October is a key event within the Shocktober campaign, joining global efforts to educate communities on the life-saving skills of CPR and AED use. By learning these critical techniques, we can collectively improve cardiac arrest survival rates and save lives.

South Australian Government Panel   We are thrilled to announce that Cardiac Defibrillators has been appointed to the South Australian Government Panel to provide defibrillators across whole of government facilities as mandated from January 1 2025, with certain private sector facilities to follow in 2026. The South Australian Government enacted the Automated External Defibrillators (Public Access) Act 2022, which mandates the installation of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in all public buildings starting from 1 January 2025. This includes schools, universities, libraries, sporting facilities, and local council offices, as well as certain private buildings like shopping centres, aged care facilities, prisons, retirement villages, and commercial properties over 600 square meters. South Australia is the first state or territory in Australia, and among the few worldwide, to require AEDs in public spaces. Over 30,000 Australians suffer from sudden cardiac arrest every year. Every minute that passes, the chance of survival without an AED is reduced by 10%.

  Cardiac Arrest Survivor Makes School Plea A Leicester resident, Sanjay Shah, who experienced cardiac arrest while playing football, is advocating for broader CPR training in schools, especially targeting teenagers. Last August, Shah collapsed during a football game, and his teammate, 26-year-old Silpesh Mistry, administered first aid until paramedics arrived, ultimately saving Shah’s life. Reflecting on the incident, Shah emphasised that Mistry’s knowledge of CPR was crucial in the critical moments. Expressing his conviction, Shah stressed the importance of integrating CPR training into the school curriculum at an early age. He believes that if CPR training were a regular part of education, it could empower more individuals to respond effectively during emergencies. Shah emphasised the need for widespread CPR education, emphasising that it should be introduced to students around the ages of 13 to 15. He argued that equipping young people with CPR skills could have a lifelong impact, similar to other subjects taught in schools. Recently, Shah reunited with Mistry and the East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) staff who responded to his emergency. Niall Jerrison from EMAS highlighted the low survival rates associated with cardiac arrest incidents, making the importance of immediate CPR intervention even more critical. While the Department for Education acknowledged the current inclusion of first aid training in the curriculum, including CPR instruction for secondary school students, Shah’s advocacy underscores the call for more comprehensive and regular CPR education in schools. Source: BBC

  Kansas City Chiefs’ player stable in hospital after cardiac arrest Chiefs’ defensive end BJ Thompson is currently in a stable condition at a local hospital following a medical emergency, sources report. Thompson, aged 25, was rushed to the hospital from the team’s practice facility on Thursday morning after experiencing a seizure and subsequently going into cardiac arrest. According to Thompson’s agent, Chris Turnage, the player is currently unconscious, but medical professionals are optimistic about his recovery. In response to the situation, the Chiefs decided to send their players home from the facility instead of proceeding with their regularly scheduled OTA practice. The practice has been rescheduled for Friday. Thompson joined the Chiefs after being selected in the fifth round of the 2023 draft from Stephen F. Austin. In his rookie season, he participated in one game and made two tackles. Source: ESPN Australia

  Researchers have pinpointed Australian regions with high rates of cardiac arrest and low rates of CPR, highlighting the need for targeted education campaigns to raise awareness about preventing and treating heart issues. A project led by Monash University, funded by the Heart Foundation and conducted by the Australian Resuscitation Outcomes Consortium (Aus-ROC), has identified areas with a high incidence of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and low rates of bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Cardiac arrest, which occurs when the heart stops beating, is different from a heart attack, although heart attacks can lead to cardiac arrest. Not all cardiac arrests are caused by heart attacks. Australia experiences approximately 26,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests annually. Of these cases, only 12% of patients treated by ambulance survive to hospital discharge or 30 days. Professor Janet Bray, senior author from Monash University’s School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine and Curtin University’s Prehospital, Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit, emphasized the importance of the Chain of Survival interventions for cardiac arrest. “Early bystander CPR is one of the most crucial interventions,” Professor Bray stated. “Survival rates double when CPR is administered by bystanders.” The study, published in PLOS ONE, is a retrospective, observational analysis that used data from the Aus-ROC Australian and New Zealand OHCA Registry to map OHCAs by local government area (LGA) from 2017 to 2019. The researchers used mathematical models and mapping techniques to estimate incidence and bystander CPR rates for witnessed events in each LGA. High-risk LGAs were identified as those with an incidence rate above the 75th percentile and a bystander CPR rate below the 25th percentile for their state or territory. The study included 62,579 OHCA cases attended by ambulances across 543 LGAs nationwide. Sixty high-risk LGAs, with a combined population of 1.17 million, were identified, predominantly in New South Wales. Most of these areas were regional and remote, with exceptions including two in Adelaide and two in Perth. Nationally, OHCA incidence rates across LGAs varied from 58.5 to 198.3 per 100,000 people, while bystander CPR rates ranged from 45% to 75%. Professor Bray highlighted the significant variation in OHCA incidence and bystander CPR rates across Australian LGAs, underscoring the need for targeted education campaigns in high-risk areas. Previous Aus-ROC research with Ambulance Victoria found that Victorian regions with high OHCA rates often had populations with higher cardiovascular risk factors, such as older age, lower socioeconomic status and education levels, and higher smoking rates. The incidence of OHCA decreased during the Heart Foundation’s Warning Signs campaign for heart attacks, suggesting that quick action when experiencing heart attack symptoms can prevent cardiac arrests. “Regions with higher bystander CPR rates had higher levels of CPR training,” Professor Bray noted. “Ambulance Victoria and the Heart Foundation have since provided community education in these regions through their Heart Safe Community initiative. “This body of work demonstrates that public education can improve OHCA outcomes and that we can now focus our efforts on areas with the greatest need across Australia. “Many high-risk regions are in regional and remote areas. We are currently conducting research in NSW to explore community-based approaches to improve OHCA outcomes in these areas, and we are piloting a program in Victoria to teach high school students life-saving skills.” While similar analyses have been conducted on regional OHCA variations in Queensland and Victoria, this study is the first to apply these methods across all Australian states and territories. The organisations involved in this study include Monash University, Curtin University, Queensland University of Technology, Auckland University of Technology, Queensland Ambulance Service, St John Western Australia, NSW Ambulance, Ambulance Victoria, SA Ambulance Service, St John Ambulance NT, ACT Ambulance, and Ambulance Tasmania. For a full list of LGAs and their risk status, click here. Source: Monash University

Study Reveals Shocking Underuse of Life-Saving AEDs During Cardiac Arrests   Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) installed in numerous public venues have the potential to rescue individuals experiencing cardiac arrest, yet a recent study uncovers a disheartening reality: these devices are rarely utilised. Funded by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and slated for presentation at an upcoming American College of Cardiology conference, the study examined almost 1,800 cases of cardiac arrest outside hospital settings, revealing that AEDs were employed in only 13 instances. Why the scarcity of AED utilisation? Despite their role in resuscitating Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin during an on-field health crisis last year, experts are puzzled by the underuse of these devices, leading to preventable deaths. Here’s what you need to know about AEDs and what steps you can take in an emergency. Understanding AEDs: AEDs serve as portable versions of hospital defibrillators, designed to restore the heart’s rhythm. While regulations surrounding AEDs vary across states, many public locations such as schools, gyms, airports, and federal buildings are mandated to have them. These devices feature a screen displaying instructions, a battery, and in some models, a speaker for audio guidance. Equipped with defibrillation pads, AEDs analyze the heart’s rhythm upon attachment to the chest and administer an electric shock if deemed necessary. With survival rates for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests ranging from 8% to 10%, defibrillation dramatically enhances the likelihood of survival, boosting it to 50% to 74%. Moreover, AEDs are user-friendly, requiring minimal training to operate, making them accessible to anyone in a critical situation. Why AEDs Remain Underutilised: Despite their availability, AEDs are seldom utilised during cardiac emergencies, as indicated by the study’s findings. The proximity of AEDs to cardiac arrest incidents did not significantly increase their usage, raising concerns about public awareness and response in emergencies. Dr. Mirza Khan, the lead author of the study, underscores the necessity of optimising AED placement and enhancing bystander education and awareness. Identifying high-risk areas for cardiac arrests could inform strategic AED placement strategies. What You Can Do: Empower yourself to respond effectively in an emergency by familiarizing yourself with AED locations in public spaces. Observe for AEDs in supermarkets, libraries, gyms, and theaters, preparing yourself mentally to act swiftly if needed. Additionally, mentally rehearse potential emergency scenarios to mitigate freezing during critical moments. Dr. Harlan Krumholz advises individuals to spend a few minutes envisioning their response to cardiac emergencies, emphasizing the simplicity and effectiveness of AEDs’ instructions. Recognizing signs of cardiac arrest, including fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, and chest pain, is crucial for prompt intervention. If confronted with a cardiac emergency, immediately call for help and initiate CPR if necessary, while seeking out an AED nearby. Remember, AEDs offer clear instructions and require minimal training to operate. By equipping yourself with basic knowledge and preparedness, you can contribute to saving lives in critical situations. Source: Yahoo

Mum’s Quick Actions Save 6-Year-Old Son After Baseball Accident   In a heart-stopping moment during a baseball game in Lake Worth, Florida, 6-year-old Oscar Stuebe faced cardiac arrest after being struck by a fly ball. Thanks to the swift response and CPR administered by his mother, Sarah Stuebe, Oscar is on the road to recovery and gearing up to hit the baseball field once more, this time equipped with a protective chest guard. The Stuebe family joined TODAY on April 5 to recount the frightening ordeal and underscore the importance of CPR in saving lives. “I immediately switched into nurse mode…he went limp. CPR instincts kicked in. I performed CPR for two minutes, realising all the while that this was my son. I was falling apart,” Sarah shared, her voice trembling as she relived the traumatic moments on the field. Oscar suffered from commotio cordis, a rare condition that also affected Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin in January 2023. Despite the ordeal, Oscar expressed feeling “good” during his interview with TODAY’s Hoda Kotb. His face lit up with joy upon seeing a get-well message from his favourite baseball player, New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe, played during the show. Following several days in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), Oscar is now “back to his 6-year-old self,” according to his mother. “We were cautioned against raising his heart rate, which was a bit challenging with three other active brothers at home,” Sarah joked. Although relieved that their son’s crisis appears to have had a positive outcome, the Stuebe family is determined to prevent other families from experiencing similar traumas. “It was the worst imaginable scenario,” remarked dad Riley Stuebe during the TODAY interview. Playing centerfield during a double-header for his 7-year-old brother’s travel baseball team on Sunday, March 10, Oscar found himself involved in an unexpected turn of events. Despite the seemingly routine nature of the game, a player from the opposing team hit a pop fly that led to the incident. “It was a rather routine pop fly in centerfield, something we’ve seen countless times in the backyard. It wasn’t a powerful hit or a direct blow to his chest,” Riley explained. Oscar’s father rushed to his side as Sarah, from the stands, initially assumed everything was fine. However, a call from Riley quickly alerted her to the severity of the situation. “When Riley called out my name, I knew something was terribly wrong,” Sarah recalled. Sarah, a nurse, immediately dialed 911 and began CPR upon reaching her son, who was experiencing a seizure. Despite her medical training, the realisation that she was performing CPR on her own child was overwhelming. A physician’s assistant and parent from a neighbouring field, Jaime DeFalle, stepped in to assist with compressions until first responders arrived. Fortunately, the West Palm Fire Station 2 was located nearby, allowing for a rapid response. Oscar’s pulse was eventually detected during the ambulance ride to St. Mary’s Medical Center, a Level 1 trauma center. The agonising wait for news on Oscar’s condition was eased by the outpouring of support from both medical personnel and the opposing team’s community. “It was an agonising wait,” Sarah recalled. “We prayed incessantly, not only for Oscar but also for the 7-year-old who hit the fly ball, as it was a traumatic experience for everyone on the field.” Despite the initial uncertainty, Oscar showed signs of improvement upon waking up and was soon his cheerful self again. The Stuebe family expressed their gratitude for the care received and emphasized the importance of CPR training and access to defibrillators in saving lives. “Our sons will now wear specialised chest protectors on the field, a precaution mandated by USA Lacrosse but not yet by national youth baseball leagues,” Sarah asserted. “Whether they’re playing in the backyard or on the field, safety is our priority.” In collaboration with cardiologist Dr. Holly S. Andersen, the Stuebes aim to promote Hands Only CPR initiatives, emphasizing the simplicity and effectiveness of the technique. “We urge everyone to learn CPR—it could truly make a difference,” Sarah emphasized. As they reflect on their journey, the Stuebes remain grateful for the support received from all corners, underscoring the unity and compassion that transcends competitive boundaries. “As one of the other team’s moms put it, ‘We may wear different jerseys, but ultimately, we’re all on the same team,’” Sarah concluded. Source: This article was originally published on TODAY.com.

Hawthorn Resident Rescued Following Gym Cardiac Arrest   Hugh, a Hawthorn resident, faced a dire situation when he suffered a cardiac arrest at the gym. Thanks to the swift actions of a family member and the specialized skills of a rapid-response team from The Alfred and Ambulance Victoria, he was given another chance at life. Hugh, a father of two, joins a select group of only 19 individuals in Melbourne who have undergone ECMO, a life-saving intervention, outside of a hospital setting, all due to a groundbreaking trial in Victoria. ECMO, or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, serves as a surrogate for a patient’s heart and lungs when these organs fail, by redirecting blood through an external machine. Traditionally, this procedure is only available in specialized hospital settings. Dr. Sacha Richardson, co-lead of the trial and specialist at Alfred’s ICU, explained that while CPR and defibrillation are vital in responding to cardiac arrests, the chances of survival drop significantly if the heart cannot be restarted within 30 minutes. “We aim to change that with ECMO,” Dr. Richardson emphasized. Dr. Aidan Burrell, an ICU physician who was among the first responders, expressed his delight at seeing Hugh’s progress. “He is incredibly motivated and following all the necessary steps for recovery. It’s heartening to witness his substantial improvement,” Dr. Burrell remarked. Source: Alfred Hospital

Shinty Official Survives Cardiac Arrest Thanks to Quick Action   Stevie Maclachlan, a 56-year-old shinty referee, owes his life to the swift response of players and the presence of a defibrillator after he suffered a cardiac arrest during a match. Maclachlan began feeling unwell just 12 minutes into Saturday’s MacTavish Cup tie between Caberfeidh and Kinlochshiel in Strathpeffer. “I had a severe pain in my chest – it was getting tighter and tighter. I was down on one knee, I managed to blow my whistle and then everything went black,” he recounted. Conor Cormack, captain of Kinlochshiel, along with teammate Keith Macrae, who are both firefighters, utilized a defibrillator from Caberfeidh’s clubhouse and administered CPR to revive Maclachlan. Currently recuperating at home in Muir of Ord after receiving hospital treatment, Maclachlan expressed his gratitude, stating, “I am lucky to be here. I wouldn’t be here if Conor and Keith hadn’t been there. The outcome might not have been as well.” Reflecting on the incident, Maclachlan emphasized the importance of having defibrillators readily available, expressing his hope that shinty clubs without one would install them. These devices deliver a high-energy shock to the heart during cardiac arrest, aiding in restarting it. Maclachlan recalled the moment of regaining consciousness, stating, “Conor was a foot away and I asked him what he was doing, and he said ‘I’m glad you’re back’ and I asked ‘from where?’ I said to him ‘if you get out of the road I’ll get up,’ but he said I couldn’t get up, and then it sort of sank in.” Despite the harrowing experience on the field, Maclachlan noted that the hospital treatment significantly improved his health, remarking, “I feel better than I have done for months.” Source: BBC

UK: Cardiac Arrest Survivor Defies Odds: Northern Ireland Leads in Life-Saving Skills New statistics from the British Heart Foundation (BHF) highlight Northern Ireland’s impressive standing in life-saving skills within the UK. The data reveals that nearly 75% of adults in Northern Ireland possess the ability to perform CPR, with virtually all respondents acknowledging the importance of acquiring this vital skill. CPR proficiency can prove pivotal in the face of a cardiac arrest, acting as the critical factor between life and death. This reality hit close to home for a Belfast couple, Steve and Andrea Bond. Steve Bond, a 61-year-old from Belfast, experienced a sudden cardiac arrest while working at an international golf event in 2022. His wife, Andrea, realising something was amiss, promptly administered CPR on the spot, ultimately saving his life as they awaited the ambulance. Steve, a seemingly healthy individual who ate well, was astonished by the unexpected cardiac arrest. Reflecting on the incident, he shared that friends were shocked by the occurrence, and doctors informed him that his heart had stopped for approximately 40 minutes. The consultants emphasised that surviving such an event was rare and credited Andrea’s immediate CPR intervention. Andrea, drawing on her prior training in first aid, began CPR before even receiving instructions from the ambulance operator. She recounted the harrowing 13 minutes before the ambulance arrived, stating, “Everything was going horribly wrong in front of me.” Having lost her mother and witnessed her father’s passing as a child, Andrea felt compelled to act, underscoring the importance of CPR training even if acquired through indirect means like TV and advertisements. The significance of CPR proficiency becomes evident when considering the statistics in Northern Ireland, where over 1,400 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur annually, with less than one in ten resulting in survival. While the figures demonstrate Northern Ireland’s leading position, the BHF emphasises the need for broader CPR education. Fearghal McKinney, Head of the British Heart Foundation Northern Ireland, stresses the importance of Heart Month in increasing CPR training. Despite Northern Ireland’s commendable 74% CPR proficiency rate, Scotland closely follows at 71%, with Wales and England at 60% and 58%, respectively. The BHF introduces an online tool, RevivR, to facilitate CPR learning, encouraging people to invest just 15 minutes during breaks to acquire life-saving skills. McKinney concludes, “Every moment matters when someone has a cardiac arrest, and being able to step in and perform CPR could be the difference between life and death. A cardiac arrest can affect anyone, at any time, so we want as many people to learn CPR as possible.” Source: BBC

Australia Set to Establish World’s Largest Registry for Sudden Cardiac Arrest In a groundbreaking effort to unravel the mysteries surrounding sudden cardiac arrest, Australian scientists, backed by the Heart Foundation and led by Dr. Elizabeth Paratz from the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, are embarking on the creation of the world’s most extensive registry for sudden cardiac arrest deaths. This initiative, known as CODEX-SD, will begin its data collection in Victoria and amalgamate information from two significant databases, connecting ambulance and forensic data for an unprecedented examination. The CODEX-SD super-registry will offer researchers an unparalleled opportunity to closely investigate the causes of sudden cardiac arrests and explore potential preventive measures. This comprehensive database will serve as a central repository for cardiac arrest data nationwide, aiding researchers in scrutinizing rare conditions, identifying trends, and gaining insights into the cardiac experiences of under-represented populations. Dr. Paratz emphasized that CODEX-SD is pivotal in guiding researchers toward understanding the genetic intricacies contributing to sudden cardiac arrest, a leading cause of death for individuals under the age of 50 in Australia. The registry aims to provide clarity in cases where, despite exhaustive investigations, there is no apparent cause for the tragic events leading to sudden cardiac arrest. Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart abruptly ceases to pump blood effectively throughout the body, and it can strike at any time and place. Immediate and appropriate intervention is crucial for survival, as 90 percent of individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest do not survive without prompt assistance. Annually, around 25,000 Australians face out-of-hospital cardiac arrests, with 30 to 40 percent of cases remaining unexplained by doctors. Dr. Paratz expressed the importance of addressing this lack of closure for families, stating that understanding the genetic factors could not only bring solace to affected families but also help identify individuals at risk within the family. The registry receives strong support from Jessica Maris, who tragically lost her husband Bryan at the age of 31 to sudden cardiac arrest. Bryan, an A-grade cyclist and exceptionally fit individual, succumbed to an unexpected cardiac event. Jessica emphasized the potential significance of an early electrocardiogram (ECG) in identifying conditions like Brugada syndrome, which was later suspected to be the cause of Bryan’s sudden cardiac arrest. The Maris family’s endorsement of the registry underscores the critical need for comprehensive research in preventing sudden cardiac arrests, enabling early identification of genetic conditions, and ultimately saving lives. The initiative aims not only to advance medical knowledge but also to provide families with a clearer understanding and potential avenues for prevention. Source: Heart Foundation

Gender Disparity in Bystander Defibrillation: Victorian Study Reveals Challenges for Women in Cardiac Emergencies A recent study conducted by the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute and Ambulance Victoria sheds light on a concerning gender disparity in bystander defibrillation during cardiac emergencies in Victoria. The research, examining over 32,500 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests, reveals that women experiencing cardiac arrest are only half as likely as men to receive defibrillation from bystanders. The study, analysing data spanning from 2002 to 2021 from the Victorian Ambulance Cardiac Arrest Registry, indicates that a mere 5% of women who suffered cardiac arrest received defibrillation from bystanders, in stark contrast to the 10% of men who did. These findings persist despite the existence of laws across all Australian states and territories protecting bystanders acting in good faith during medical emergencies. Interviews with bystanders uncovered concerns related to the public exposure of women’s chests, potential injury, or confusion about recognising a woman experiencing cardiac arrest. However, the research also highlights a positive trend in bystander CPR rates for women, rising from 42.7% in 2002-03 to 71.3% in 2020-21. The gender disparity in CPR rates was notably less pronounced, with only a 2% difference between men and women. CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, involves chest compressions to temporarily pump blood to the brain until specialized treatment is available. Despite the challenges posed by gender-related concerns, individuals like Carol Reid from Birchip, a member of the local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), emphasise the importance of training and the need for community members to learn basic CPR skills. The study aligns with international findings from last year, indicating that bystanders are less likely to perform CPR on women than on men during public cardiac emergencies. The research emphasises the critical need to address this gender disparity in community care for women experiencing cardiac arrest. Ziad Nehme, a paramedic and Ambulance Victoria’s director of research and evaluation, underscores the importance of community involvement in bridging this gap. Dr. Nehme encourages individuals to learn CPR and use the GoodSAM app, a life-saving smartphone application connecting those in cardiac arrest with community members willing to initiate CPR and use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) before paramedics arrive. While challenges persist, community efforts and awareness campaigns can contribute to closing the gender gap in bystander defibrillation, ultimately improving survival outcomes for women during cardiac emergencies. Source; ABC News

St John Ambulance Victoria Advocates for Mandatory Defibrillators to Save Lives St John Ambulance Victoria, is urging the Victorian government to implement mandatory defibrillator installations in workplaces and public buildings. This call comes in response to alarming rates of cardiac arrests in the region. Recently, South Australia became the first Australian jurisdiction to mandate the installation of automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) in various public establishments, including schools, sports facilities, correctional facilities, and large private facilities. Gordon Botwright, Chief Executive of St John Ambulance Victoria, has appealed to his state to adopt similar regulations. Mr. Botwright stated, “We can’t tolerate losing friends or family at work due to being unable to access a lifesaving defibrillator.” Statistics reveal that around 30,000 Australians suffer sudden cardiac arrests outside of hospitals annually, with less than five percent surviving without immediate CPR and defibrillation. In the previous year, only 1.45 percent of sudden cardiac arrest victims received an early defibrillator shock from a publicly accessible device. Furthermore, it was found that only 51 percent of Australians are familiar with defibrillator operation, a figure that rises to 85 percent for those who have undergone first aid training in the past three years. Mr. Botwright emphasized the need for more people to learn CPR and defibrillator operation, stating that this knowledge is crucial in the chain of survival for cardiac arrest victims. He also stressed that it’s time for the Victorian government to make defibrillators mandatory in workplaces and public buildings. In response to these appeals, a government spokesperson pointed out that Victoria already boasts more than 7,000 registered AEDs, more than any other state or territory in Australia. These devices are distributed across a variety of locations, including public spaces and businesses, contributing to a network of safety. Nevertheless, as of now, there are no official plans in Victoria to mandate the installation of AEDs in all public spaces and workplaces. WorkSafe Victoria encourages employers to consider the feasibility of having an AED on-site to mitigate the risk of death from cardiac arrest. Top Victorian suburbs for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests: Recorded from July 2017 to June 2022 St Albans, Albanvale, Kealba, Kings Park (3021): 285 Werribee, Werribee South, Point Cook (3030): 285 Cranbourne, Cranbourne West, Cranbourne North (3977): 276 Frankston, Frankston South (3199): 269 Dandenong, Dandenong South, Dandenong North (3175): 248 Ballarat (3350): 242 Hoppers Crossing, Tarneit, Truganina (3029): 226 Reservoir (3073): 216 Sunshine, Sunshine West, Sunshine North, Albion, Derrmiut (3020): 215 Noble Park, Noble Park North (3174): 181 An inspiring example of the impact of AEDs occurred at the Frankston National Golf Club – Long Island, where the presence of a defibrillator saved the life of a sudden cardiac arrest victim. Golf operations manager Sahil Sahib, along with fellow staff members, administered CPR and used the AED, ultimately leading to a successful recovery for the patient. Source: St John Ambulance Victoria

DRSABCD: The Lifesaving Action Plan You Need to Know   In the face of a medical emergency, having a clear plan of action can mean the difference between life and death. Enter DRSABCD – a mnemonic that could be your saving grace when it comes to responding effectively in such situations. This essential action plan is widely taught by organizations like St John Ambulance, Surf Life Saving, schools, universities, sporting clubs, corporate offices, and workplaces across the globe. The DRSABCD Breakdown DRSABCD stands for: D – Danger: The first step is to assess the situation’s safety for yourself, bystanders, and the person in distress. Never jeopardize your safety while trying to help. R – Response: Check if the person is conscious by talking to them and gently shaking their shoulders. No response indicates unconsciousness. S – Send for Help: If the situation calls for it, immediately call emergency services. In Australia, dial triple zero (000) and provide necessary information. Clear the area to help emergency services locate the patient swiftly. A – Airway: Ensure the person’s airway is clear. Unconscious individuals are at risk of airway obstruction, so gently tilt their head back to open the airway. If there are obstructions, clear them carefully. B – Breathing: Check for breathing by observing chest movements, listening near the mouth and nose, and feeling for breath on the chest. If the person is unconscious but breathing, turn them onto their side and monitor their breathing. C – CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation): If the person is unconscious and not breathing, perform CPR. Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest and compress to one-third of chest depth 30 times. Follow with two breaths, tilting the head back and blowing into the mouth to ensure chest rise. Continue this cycle until the arrival of ambulance officers or another trained individual. D – Defibrillator: If an unconscious person is not breathing, and an automated external defibrillator (AED) is available, use it. AEDs can be found in many public places and organizations. They deliver an electrical shock to correct irregular heartbeats and restore normal rhythm. Simply follow the provided instructions and voice prompts. Why DRSABCD Matters Incidents like drownings can lead to cardiac arrest, and in Australia alone, there are over 30,000 cardiac arrest cases each year. Survival rates decrease by 10% with every minute of delay, emphasizing the critical importance of timely intervention. Proper training and preparedness are essential, given the narrow window of opportunity. Defibrillator Training for DRSABCD To facilitate effective training in defibrillation and the DRSABCD action plan, Cardiac Defibrillators offers defibrillation training units. These units simulate different heart rhythms, allowing participants to apply defibrillation pads, practice AED usage, and perform CPR compressions on a manikin. Clear, instructive voice guidance and a metronome ensure a realistic and informative training experience. More Resources Available In addition to training units, there are a variety of resources available for defibrillators. These resources include an informative DRSABCD infographic that can be displayed in the workplace or included in an emergency response manual. In sum, DRSABCD is a lifesaving acronym taught in first aid courses, providing a structured approach to medical emergencies. Being prepared and knowing how to respond in the DRSABCD way can help keep a person breathing, alleviate pain, and potentially save lives until professional help arrives. In a crisis, it’s not just knowledge; it’s a lifeline.

Campaign Gains Momentum for Mandatory Defibrillators in Australian Workplaces Prominent academics are advocating for the compulsory installation of defibrillators in all workplaces and public facilities across Australia, aiming to curb the tragic toll of sudden cardiac arrests. These calls coincide with the launch of a new commission by The Lancet medical journal, dedicated to reducing the global burden of sudden cardiac death—a condition responsible for over half of all cardiac-related fatalities and up to 20 percent of overall mortality worldwide. Karen Smith, an adjunct professor at Monash University’s Department of Paramedicine and one of Australia’s two commissioners on this initiative, highlights the alarming statistic that approximately 27,000 individuals experience sudden cardiac arrest in Australia annually, with a mere 11 percent survival rate. However, research underscores a ray of hope: survival rates can soar to as high as 70 percent if immediate CPR and defibrillation are administered within the initial critical minutes. This underscores the urgent need for all Australian state and territory governments to emulate South Australia’s pioneering move and mandate defibrillators in all public buildings. The Vital Role of Early Intervention Dr. Smith asserts the necessity of mandating defibrillators in new high-rise structures, government buildings, sports facilities, and schools. Swift action is crucial because for every minute without intervention, the chances of survival decline by approximately 10 percent. She stresses the importance of educating the general populace on recognizing cardiac arrests and appropriate responses, emphasizing that every workplace should be obligated to possess a defibrillator. Dr. Smith further advocates for the registration of these defibrillators with local ambulance services, ensuring that emergency hotline operators can direct callers to the nearest available unit. She asserts that having defibrillators is futile if their location cannot be effectively communicated. Moreover, Australia should invest in expanding cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training. Dr. Smith points to successful international models where CPR training is mandated for activities like obtaining a driver’s license in some countries. Calls for Enhanced Defibrillator Accessibility In conjunction with the commission’s launch, The Lancet recommends exploring the deployment of defibrillators in taxis and drones. These mobile units could cover larger areas and increase the chances of delivering automated external defibrillators promptly to the scene of an emergency. Another crucial recommendation from The Lancet is the expansion of genetic testing for assessing the risk of sudden cardiac death, making it more affordable and accessible. Jodie Ingles, an associate professor at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research and another Australian contributor to The Lancet’s commission, emphasizes that genetic testing can be the sole means of explaining sudden cardiac arrest fatalities, particularly when postmortem examinations are inconclusive due to the absence of a living heart for diagnostic tests. Dr. Ingles acknowledges the challenges but also highlights the importance of genetic testing for families seeking answers. She notes that despite the obstacles, there is a significant need for research in this area, as even with genetic testing, informative results are obtained in only a fraction of cases—perhaps as few as 20 percent—highlighting the vast room for advancement in this critical field.