How Quick Action, Preparedness, and AED Use Saved a Life in the Workplace
It started as an ordinary day, but in an instant, everything changed. Two adults were talking when one suddenly stopped, looked down, and began making snoring-like sounds. Concerned, the other person checked for a response but found none. Without hesitation, she shouted for help, prompting an immediate response. One staff member called 911 while another contacted the Lead District Nurse.
Thanks to recent CPR certification training provided by district nurses, the office staff knew exactly what to do. They quickly remembered the importance of the AED and, with one staff member calling for help, another was sent to retrieve the device. The staff was thankful for the CPR training that empowered them to act quickly.
As the calls were made, the Safety Director and School Resource Officer (SRO) heard the 911 alert and rushed to help. They quickly assessed the situation, and within a minute, the ZOLL AED 3 arrived, powered on, and the Registered Nurse (RN) began chest compressions. The AED analyzed the victim’s heart rhythm and delivered a shock with clear instructions. The RN continued CPR as instructed.
Additional staff and local law enforcement arrived promptly, and with their help, the situation was effectively managed until EMS arrived. The RN checked for a pulse and felt one, noticing the victim start to breathe, though still unresponsive. EMS assisted in transferring the victim to the ambulance, and the survivor reportedly woke up and responded.
The AED data confirmed the shock was delivered in just 36 seconds, which was a critical factor in saving the victim’s life. The ZOLL AED was the only device capable of delivering a shock due to the victim’s heart rhythm. Rescuers also pulled a heart rhythm strip from the AED for confirmation.
I couldn’t be prouder of our team for their fast and coordinated actions that made all the difference in this life-saving event.
Stefany Layton,
SCA Rescuer
Lead District Nurse Stefany Layton expressed her immense gratitude for the ZOLL AEDs and the CPR/AED program she had championed for years. She had been advocating for AED upgrades and additional units on campus and had already placed several units before the incident. She also proposed the district join the Project ADAM Heart Safe program, which was warmly received.
The district had begun refining procedures and training before the event, and they are thankful for the timely training. They are still working toward becoming a Heart Safe School, ensuring all staff are trained in hands-only CPR and AED use.
Stefany is committed to completing this project to ensure every staff member feels confident in responding during emergencies.
