Defibrillators are essential first aid for sudden cardiac arrest, a leading cause of death in the United States. For each minute that passes before defibrillation therapy reaches a victim, their chance for survival decreases by about 10 percent. After 10 minutes, few attempts at resuscitation are successful.

The Philips HeartStart OnSite Defibrillator now is approved for sale to businesses, building managers, schools, and other commercial users without a physician’s prescription. HeartStart Defibrillators treat the most common cause of sudden cardiac arrest, a condition in which the heart's electrical activity becomes disorganized and the heart pumps little or no blood.

The availability of the Philips defibrillator makes it easier for communities to implement early defibrillation programs. This development decreases liability that may be related to resuscitation efforts and ends the need for medical oversight of a business' defibrillator program.

While training is not required, many people feel more competent and confident in using the equipment if they can practice and receive instruction. American Heart Association-certified classes are available through Methodist Healthcare. For more information or to register for a class, call Richard Marquez, Methodist Women's Center, 575-0369. With advance notice, Marquez is available for interviews on the importance of defibrillator use and training in the workplace.

If you are interested in any of these story ideas, please phone Shirley Wills at 822-2378 or 860-5289 (cell) or JoAnn King, 575-0171 or 917-7916 (pager). For media assistance during the weekend, please phone Methodist Hospital, 575-4000, and ask for the public relations representative on call.