https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zq_dcVTn95k

WVSSAC

SUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST AWARENESS

All coaches are required to complete the NFHS Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness course annually.

What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

• Occurs suddenly and often without warning.

• An electrical malfunction (short-circuit) causes the bottom chambers of the heart (ventricles) to

  beat dangerously fast (ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation) and disrupts the pumping ability of the

  heart.

• The heart cannot pump blood to the brain, lungs and other organs of the body.

• The person loses consciousness (passes out) and has no pulse.

• Death occurs within minutes if not treated immediately.

  What are the symptoms/warning signs of Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

• SCA should be suspected in any athlete who has collapsed and is unresponsive

• Fainting, a seizure, or convulsions during physical activity

• Dizziness or lightheadedness during physical activity

• Unusual fatigue/weakness

• Chest pain

• Shortness of breath

• Nausea/vomiting

• Palpitations (heart is beating unusually fast or skipping beats)

• Family history of sudden cardiac arrest at age <50
  ANY of these symptoms/warning signs may necessitate further evaluation from your physician before returning to practice or a game.

  What causes Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

• Conditions present at birth (inherited and non-inherited heart abnormalities)

• A blow to the chest (Commotio Cordis)

• An infection/inflammation of the heart, usually caused by a virus. (Myocarditis)

• Recreational/Performance-Enhancing drug use.

• Other cardiac & medical conditions / Unknown causes. (Obesity/Idiopathic)

  What are ways to screen for Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

• The American Heart Association recommends a pre-participation history and physical which is mandatory annually in West Virginia.

• Always answer the heart history questions on the student Health History section of the WVSSAC Physical Form completely and honestly.

• Additional screening may be necessary at the recommendation of a physician.

  What is the treatment for Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

• Act immediately; time is critical to increase survival rate

• Activate emergency action plan

• Call 911

• Begin CPR

• Use Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

  Where can one find additional information?

• Contact your primary health care provider

• American Heart Association (www.heart.org)

22 Revised 2019