MISD Increases Emergency Response Capabilities with Purchase of Defibrillators for all Facilities
Apr. 22, 2005

Taking a precautionary approach to ensure the health and safety of students and staff is a priority in Midlothian ISD. The district has purchased Phillips HeartStart Automated External Defibrillators (AED's) in the event of a medical emergency. The AED is used to treat sudden cardiac arrest, a condition that occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping. This device delivers an electric shock to defibrillate the victim's heart.

MISD is one of the first school districts in the area to have defibrillators accessible at all facilities including the district's daycare, administration, and auxiliary buildings. The district already had defibrillators for the high school trainer's office and gym, but it was necessary to expand the location of defibrillators across the entire district. They are located in the front office of every campus and also in the gym area of all secondary schools.

"The idea that we might be able to save a life made it an easy decision to have defibrillators at all of our schools," Kennedy said. "We thought that we should have them before the need ever came about."

AED's are used by people who have been specifically trained in its operation. Brenda Jenkins, MHS nurse, said campus nurses, principals, coaches, and trainers are the only ones currently certified to use the AED. More widespread training of teachers and select office staff will be completed this summer.

The portable defibrillators will extend the emergency medical response capabilities of employees, who have been trained to use the equipment, in conjunction with their cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification.