Automated External Defibrillators and Secondary Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death Among Children and Adolescents

Sudden cardiac death is devastating at any age, but it is especially so among children and adolescents. This report discusses the outcomes for patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and describes public access defibrillation programs in general and those directed at children and adolescents. In addition, the relatively new concept of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)–automated external defibrillator (AED) programs directed at schools is discussed. Although limited data are available, some of the preliminary data suggest improved OHCA outcomes associated with CPR-AED programs implemented in schools. These early data provide hope for the future potential reduction in the incidence of sudden cardiac deaths in the school setting, not only among children and adolescents, but also among adults.