Sudden Cardiac Death

NCAA requires institutions to complete preparticipation physicals that include cardiac health to help prevent any sudden cardiac deaths. Many illnesses can lead to sudden cardiac death including, but not limited to diabetes, asthma, anaphylaxis, sickle cell trait, and concussion.

Cardiac 3-minute Drill

This drill helps prevent sudden cardiac death through five simple steps.

1. Early recognition of sudden cardiac arrest
   1. Collapsed and unresponsive
   2. Gasping, gurgling, snorting, moaning, or labored breathing noises
   3. Seizure-like activity 
   4. A blow to the chest – baseballs, lacrosse balls, hockey pucks/balls to the chest can cause cardiac collapse
2. Early access to 911
   1. Call 911 and follow emergency dispatcher’s instructions
   2. Shout for help from other on-site emergency responders.
      1. If you are alone, get an AED (if available) before you begin CPR.
      2. If two people are on-site, one begins CPR while the other retrieves the AED.
3. Early CPR
   1. Immediately begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and continue until Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrive. 
   2. Chest compressions — push hard, push fast — 100 per minute in the center of the chest.
4. Early Defibrillation
   1. Use an automated external defibrillator (AED) as soon as it arrives to restore the heart to its normal rhythm.
   2. Target goal collapse-to-shock is less than 3 minutes
5. Early advanced care
   1. EMS responders begin advanced life support, including additional resuscitative measures, and transfer to a hospital.