The importance of AEDs and cardiac emergency response plans in schools

Why AEDs matter

SCA occurs when a person’s heart unexpectedly stops beating due to an electrical problem that disrupts its rhythm. Without immediate action to restore the heartbeat, SCA can quickly lead to death. When a child experiences SCA, an automated external defibrillator (AED) becomes a lifesaving device. An AED delivers an electric shock to reset the heart’s rhythm. Because these devices are simple and easy to use, they can be used effectively by staff, students, or bystanders during an emergency.

"AEDs save lives. On any given weekday, 20% of the national population, or 67 million people, are spending their time on a primary or secondary school campus. When AEDs are implemented in our schools, Indiana schools are safer places. When missing, they are not," said Dr. Adam Kean, pediatric cardiologist and pediatric heart rhythm specialist at Riley Children’s.

Why cardiac emergency response plans are essential

AEDs are only one part of saving lives. Schools also need cardiac emergency response plans (CERPs)—clear, practical protocols for school staff and students to respond to cardiac emergencies. A CERP typically includes:

• A trained cardiac response team (CERT) ready to act immediately
• Strategic placement, proper installation and routine maintenance of AEDs
• Clear communication of CERP procedures
• Regular training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and AED use
• Scheduled practice drills to reinforce roles and responsibilities
• Annual review and evaluation of the plan to update procedures and address gaps

Advancing safety through advocacy

Dr. Kean has also shared his insights on the importance of AEDs and CERPs in schools with state policymakers as well.

In recent testimony before the Indiana General Assembly, Dr. Kean noted: "The out-of-hospital survival rate of SCA in all Americans has been quoted as low as <6% by the Institute of Medicine in 2015. In a study published in 2013, of more than 2,000 high schools that had AED programs, the survival rate in student athletes and those adults being athletically active was 89%." This continued advocacy helps to reinforce the need for state policies that protect children and ensure schools are prepared for cardiac emergencies.

Notably, Indiana has established specific requirements for AED access and emergency preparedness in schools—an important step in preventing tragedy and improving outcomes for students.