The one at the curling rink, donated by the UCT, got its first workout on the evening of Tuesday, December 5. Don Hole, a paramedic and UCT member, was not there at the time, but knew the basics. He said a man in the connected bowling alley became incapacitated, and reviving him was a problem. Two ladies used the AED machine from the curling rink while 911 were summoned and CPR performed. Hole said he had revived somewhat by the time the EMS arrived, where he was first taken to the local health centre, then to Brandon for a life flight to Winnipeg.
Hole said the UCT had purchased the unit five or six years ago. It spends its winters in the curling rink/bowling alley complex then goes to the golf course.
“It’s a good way to utilize the device,” Hole said.
He said because of his background, he knew the value of an AED, so he suggested to the club they purchase one for the community. The rest of the Boissevain UCT agreed and the device was ordered.
An AED is a portable unit which checks heart rhythm and can send an electric shock to restore it. They are used to treat sudden cardiac arrest. The most common cause of this is ventricular fibrillation, in which the ventricles in the heart do not beat normally, instead quivering rapidly and irregularly. In this and other types of arrhythmia, the shock from an AED can help restore rhythm. This is important because cardiac arrest can cause death within a few minutes if not treated.
Hole said one of the most important parts of an AED is the ease in which it can be used. One does not need a lot of medical training. Once a unit is turned on, it speaks instructions on its use. He added it would not shock someone with a normal heartbeat.
“That’s the great thing about these, they are pretty foolproof.”
Although the unit used was the only one supplied by UCT, there are other devices around town. One at the Boissevain Arena is shared seasonally with the pool. There is one at the Community Centre, one at the Civic Centre, one at SunRise Credit Union and two at the school – one at the staff room and another near the gyms.
To Hole’s knowledge, the recent episode with the AED is the only time one has been used in Boissevain. There will likely be others in the future, and their value cannot be overlooked.
“That one saved a life,” Hole stated. “If it does that, it is more than worthwhile to have it. That one has already proved its worth.”
by PAUL RAYNER, Recorder staff