BOONE, Iowa—The Iowa Heart Center Foundation has granted the placement of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to Genesis Development in Boone to provide a safer environment to all who use the facilities.
Iowa Heart Center Cardiologist, Dr. Rakshak Sarda, presented Sara Morton and the Genesis staff with the device on May 10, 2018. Training on use of the AED was also provided to those in attendance.
Since cardiac arrest can strike anywhere, anytime, one of the best defenses is to make sure the community is supplied with life-saving technology and is trained in its use. AEDs – automatic external defibrillators – are state of the art devices that when used in conjunction with effective CPR, assist in the resuscitation of a sudden cardiac arrest victim. AEDs do not require extensive medical knowledge to understand or operate. The expertise is programmed into the device, enabling non-medical individuals to respond to cardiac emergencies.
“With every passing minute in sudden cardiac arrest, the chance of surviving decreases by about 10 percent,” says Sarda. “Increased access to AEDs can save dozens of lives each year in our community. It is important that community members learn the location of AEDs in the community and be prepared to use these life-saving devices if necessary.”
The mission of the Iowa Heart Foundation is to provide community-based services and educational programs that inspire Iowans to lead a heart-healthy life.
The Iowa Heart Center Foundation hosts the 11th Annual Run For Your Life run/walk event on Saturday, August 25, 2018 at Des Moines Water Works Park. Proceeds from this annual 10K/ 5K/2-mile run/walk support the placement of AEDs in Iowa communities. For more information visit www.iowaheartfoundation.org.
(contributed article and photo, Iowa Heart Center Foundation and Genesis Development)
About the Author
