Two Okanagan teachers saved the life of a student with an AED. The teachers were recognized by B.C. Emergency Health Services for helping save the life of a student who went into cardiac arrest during gym class.
The South Okanagan Secondary School teachers Steve Podomorow and Mike Russo resuscitated the 13-year old Dilshaan Dhaliwal using CPR and an automated external defibrillator (AED). According to Russo, the AED gave him the best chance to save the life of the student.
Rapid action
During a joint gym class with Russo’s Grade 8 class and Podomorow’s senior class, Dhaliwal collapsed after a 12 minute run. The grade 8 student just handed his running results to Russo and was walking past Podomorow when he went into cardiac arrest.
According to Russo, he was the first aid person at the school and check the student quickly, called 911 and started CPR. The 911 dispatcher stayed on the line with them the entire time, helping them throughout the process.
Russo used the AED and has started CPR within 2-3 minutes. It is estimated that he performed CPR for around 8 or 9 minutes. Dhaliwal was later flown to the B.C. Children’s Hospital for treatment.
Access to AEDs
According to Podomorow, they were lucky to have quick access to an AED. The device helped them and the paramedics used it quickly.
The AED along with CPR helped saved Dhaliwal’s life. The child was in a shockable rhythm and was able to reset the heart. Many schools across Okanagan have AEDs but not all do.
Prompt delivery of CPR and using an AED can save a life. If you want to be prepared during emergencies, it is recommended to enroll in a first aid course today.
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LEARN MORE
Learn how to help by enrolling in a CPR and AED class and for more information, check out these sources: