AED machines installed on campus

By Austin Shipman
CO-NEWS EDITOR

Evangel University’s Safety Committee has begun the installation of several automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) all over campus. An AED is a medical device that administers an electric charge through a person’s chest upon the incident of cardiac arrest.

These devices are small, portable and easy to operate. According to Dr. Michael Tenneson, Professor of Biology and chair of the Safety Committee, the committee chose to install the devices after years of discussion.

“The two major factors in influencing the decision were the continuous athletic events on campus and large crowds that are drawn to the school because of concerts, speeches, etc.,” Tenneson said.

“With Evangel hosting large public events, it became necessary to have the devices in place, and there is still a possibility of an athlete suffering from heart failure.”

Although college-aged students are at low risk for cardiac problems, with approximately 220,000 cases of sudden cardiac arrest each year, the committee saw the importance of taking the precaution for all age groups--even those visiting the campus. If a victim receives early treatment with an AED along with CPR, their outcome can be improved significantly.

According to Susie Bryan, MSN, RN, FNCP, the new AEDs have been installed in the following locations: Barnett Fine Arts Center, Physical Plant Department (Main Entrance), Riggs Administration Building and the Ashcroft Center (Northeast Hallway). There is also a portable unit that is used during practices and in the baseball field house.

In addition to these installations, the Safety Committee is offering AED/ CPR classes to Evangel employees at no cost. The committee also hopes to eventually open up the classes to students.