I learned from an early age how CPR can make the difference between life and death. On a family camping trip when I was 11, I witnessed my dad save my cousin’s life. My dad’s quick response meant my cousin survived and is here with us today.
Now as a recent nursing school graduate working in cardiology, I understand even more that someone like my dad being able to perform CPR is rare. Unfortunately, only 40% of people who experience a cardiac arrest outside of a hospital get the immediate help they need. In schools, cardiac emergency response plans can more than double survival rates from cardiac arrest by empowering the people nearby to take action by dialing 911, starting CPR and using an automated external defibrillator (AED).
Seventy percent of children survive cardiac arrest in schools with AEDs. That is seven times the overall survival rate for children. Earlier this year, I met with lawmakers in Washington, D.C., to talk about the importance of federal policies that will equip schools with the resources to respond during a cardiac emergency.
Along with other American Heart Association advocates, we shared our stories and urged them to pass the HEARTS Act and Access to AEDs Act, which would give schools across the country funds to purchase AEDs, train students and staff on how to perform CPR and use AEDs and create cardiac emergency response plans for their campuses. In September, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed the HEARTS Act.
I’m now calling on my senators to ensure this legislation is finalized by the end of the year. More than 350,000 people will experience a cardiac arrest outside of a hospital this year. Passing this legislation will help reduce that number in the years to come.
Shaye Johnson, Washington
