The Legal Implications of “Do Not Resuscitate” Tattoos

Author: Marcy Burnham

A DNR order is a legal document stating that a person does not want to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if their heart stops or if they stop breathing. Traditionally, these orders are documented in medical records and often accompanied by physical forms or bracelets. However, some individuals have opted for a more permanent and visible method: tattoos.  While the intent behind these tattoos is clear—to convey the individual’s wish not to be resuscitated in the event of a medical emergency—their legal standing and the responsibilities of medical professionals in such scenarios are complex and often uncertain.

People who choose DNR tattoos may do so for several reasons:

  • They believe it offers a clear and immediate way to communicate their wishes.
  • They want to ensure that their wishes are respected even in situations where traditional documentation might not be readily accessible.
  • They seek to avoid the physical wear or loss associated with other forms of DNR documentation.

The legal implications of DNR tattoos vary widely and are often unclear:

  • In most jurisdictions, a tattoo is not legally recognized as a valid DNR order. Legally binding DNR orders usually need to be documented through specific forms signed by the patient and a physician.
  • Medical professionals who choose to follow the instruction of a DNR tattoo without proper legal documentation risk potential legal repercussions. If a patient or their family contests the decision, it could lead to legal action against the healthcare provider or institution.
  • There have been instances where the presence of a DNR tattoo has led to legal and ethical debates. For example, a case in Florida saw medical personnel honor a man’s DNR tattoo, but only after consulting with legal and ethical advisors. This case highlighted the complexities and potential for varied responses based on individual circumstances and interpretations.

Given the current legal landscape, individuals considering a DNR tattoo and healthcare providers should consider the following:

  • Individuals should ensure they have legally recognized DNR documentation in addition to any tattoo. This can include forms filed with their healthcare provider and accessible to emergency personnel.
  • It’s important for individuals to communicate their wishes with family members, healthcare proxies, and their primary healthcare providers to ensure everyone is aware of and understands their intentions.
  • Healthcare institutions should develop clear policies and training for staff on how to handle situations involving DNR tattoos. This can include protocols for seeking legal and ethical guidance in emergencies.

DNR tattoos raise significant legal and ethical questions that challenge the traditional processes of medical decision-making. While they can be a powerful expression of personal autonomy, the lack of legal recognition and the potential for misinterpretation mean that they should not be relied upon in isolation. Individuals should ensure their end-of-life wishes are documented through legally recognized means, and medical professionals must navigate these situations with careful consideration of both ethical principles and legal obligations. The conversation around DNR tattoos highlights the need for ongoing dialogue and clarity in the intersection of personal rights, medical ethics, and legal standards.

Office: (205) 417-4711
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AED and CPR Awareness Week: Saving Lives Together

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN

Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death worldwide, with over 350,000 cases occurring outside of hospitals in the United States alone each year. Immediate intervention with CPR and an AED can double or even triple the chances of survival. However, many people are still unaware of how to perform CPR or use an AED effectively. AED and CPR Awareness Week aims to bridge this knowledge gap by promoting training and encouraging more people to become lifesavers.

What is CPR?
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a critical emergency procedure that combines chest compressions and rescue breaths to maintain blood flow and oxygenation in a person whose heart has stopped beating. CPR can keep vital organs alive until professional medical help arrives, making it a crucial first response to cardiac arrest.

What is an AED?
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable electronic device designed to diagnose and treat sudden cardiac arrest. It delivers an electric shock, or defibrillation, to the heart to restore a normal rhythm. AEDs are user-friendly and provide step-by-step instructions, making them accessible to the general public.

How to Get Involved in AED and CPR Awareness Week

1. Attend a Training Session
Many organizations, including the American Heart Association and the Red Cross, offer CPR and AED training courses throughout the week. Check for local sessions in your area and encourage friends and family to join.

2. Promote Awareness on Social Media
Use your social media platforms to share information about AED and CPR Awareness Week. Post facts, statistics, and personal stories to inspire others to get trained. 

3. Host a Community Event
Organize a community event or workshop to demonstrate CPR and AED use. Partner with local health organizations, schools, or workplaces to maximize reach and impact.

4. Advocate for AED Accessibility
Advocate for the placement of AEDs in public spaces and workplaces. Contact local businesses and government officials to discuss the importance of having easily accessible AEDs.

5. Share Personal Stories
If you or someone you know has been impacted by CPR or AED use, share your story. Personal experiences can be powerful motivators for others to learn these lifesaving skills.

AED and CPR Awareness Week is a vital opportunity to spread knowledge, inspire action, and ultimately save lives. By participating in this awareness week, you can help ensure that more people are prepared to respond effectively in a cardiac emergency. Remember, every second counts, and with the right training and tools, anyone can become a lifesaver. Join us in making a difference this week and beyond!

Office: (205) 417-4711
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AED Delivery by Drones

AED drones

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN – AED365 Leader

In moments of crisis, every second counts. Whether it’s a sudden cardiac arrest or any other medical emergency, swift action can mean the difference between life and death. But what if help could arrive even faster, in the form of a buzzing drone carrying a life-saving Automated External Defibrillator (AED) straight to the scene?  Welcome to the future of emergency response, where drones are taking to the skies to deliver critical medical supplies, particularly AEDs, in record time. This innovative approach is not just a technological marvel; it’s a game-changer that has the potential to save countless lives.

Time is of the essence in medical emergencies, especially when it comes to cardiac arrest. Every minute without treatment reduces the chance of survival by 7% to 10%. Emergency medical services (EMS) often face challenges in reaching the scene promptly, particularly in densely populated urban areas or remote locations with limited access.

Drones, equipped with GPS navigation and capable of carrying payloads, offer an efficient solution to bridge the gap between the onset of a medical emergency and the arrival of professional assistance. By leveraging the latest advancements in drone technology, organizations and municipalities are exploring the feasibility of using drones to deliver AEDs directly to the scene within minutes of a 911 call.

  1. Accessibility: Drones can reach locations that may be inaccessible to traditional vehicles, such as remote areas, crowded urban environments, or disaster zones.
  2. Early Intervention: Prompt delivery of an AED increases the likelihood of early defibrillation, which is crucial for restoring normal heart rhythm and improving survival rates.
  3. Reduced Response Time: By bypassing traffic and other logistical obstacles, drones can significantly reduce response times, particularly in densely populated areas.
  4. Cost-Effective: Compared to maintaining fleets of ambulances, drones offer a cost-effective alternative for supplementing emergency medical services, especially in areas with limited resources.

 As technology advances and regulatory frameworks evolve, we can expect to see drones playing an increasingly prominent role in emergency response strategies around the world. By harnessing the power of innovation and collaboration, we have the opportunity to transform the way we respond to medical emergencies, ensuring that help is never more than a drone flight away.

Office: (205) 417-4711
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The Lifesaving Impact of Public Access AEDs

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN – AED365 Leader

In moments of crisis, every second counts. When a sudden cardiac arrest strikes, the difference between life and death often hinges on swift intervention. This is where Public Access Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) emerge as silent heroes in our communities, ready to jumpstart a heart and save a life.  A sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) can happen to anyone, anywhere, regardless of age or fitness level. It’s a frightening reality that strikes without warning, often in public spaces, workplaces, or even at home. In such emergencies, the immediate availability of an AED can make all the difference. These portable devices are designed for ease of use by bystanders or non-medical personnel, enabling them to deliver a life-saving shock to restore the heart’s normal rhythm.

  • Accessibility: The placement of AEDs in public spaces is crucial for their effectiveness. By strategically placing AEDs in public areas such as airports, stadiums, schools, and office buildings, communities significantly increase the chances of survival in the event of a SCA. Time is of the essence, and the accessibility of AEDs can bridge the gap between the onset of cardiac arrest and the arrival of professional medical assistance.
  • Education: The effectiveness of AEDs doesn’t solely depend on their presence; it also relies on public awareness and education. Training programs aimed at teaching basic CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and AED operation are invaluable. When individuals are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to act in an emergency, lives are saved.
  • Innovation: As technology advances, so does the potential of AEDs to save lives. Innovations such as smartphone apps that locate nearby AEDs, coupled with real-time cardiac monitoring systems, enhance the efficiency of emergency response.

In the journey to save lives, accessibility, education, and innovation are our greatest allies. Together, let’s continue to champion the widespread adoption of Public Access AEDs, ensuring that no matter where or when a cardiac emergency strikes, someone is always ready to make a difference.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

AED Ownership and Responsibility

AED Ownership and Responsibility

Photo: What NOT to do! Keep your AED visible, accessible, and ready to respond in case of an emergency!

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN – AED365 Leader

Whether you’re being a responsible business owner by purchasing an AED to help protect you and your co-workers while in the workplace, or you have an AED in your home to protect your family, you have taken a giant, proactive leap to provide an additional layer of safety for you and your people.  Well done! 

AED availability is essential in positive sudden cardiac arrest outcomes. According to the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation:
  • SCA affects nearly 1,000 people each day
  • 90% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA) are fatal
  • 70% of SCA’s occur in the home
  • Survival depends on the quick actions of people nearby calling 911, starting CPR, and using an AED as soon as possible
 
While these statistics are quite astonishing, owning an AED is essential in completing the Chain of Survival. In addition to ownership, one should also be responsible with ensuring their AED’s are compliant and ready to rescue. AED program management ensures AED’s are ready to use in the event of a SCA, which means an increase in the chance of survival. 

State and local laws, as well as AED manufacturer requirements can make achieving compliance difficult to navigate. Failing to comply with these AED laws and regulations means increased liability for your organization. 
Let AED365 help bring your AED program into compliance and readiness. There are over 30 helpful features of AED365 including:
  • 24×7 access to your AED Program
  • 99.9% uptime on secure and reliable servers
  • Unlimited program users/managers/directors, locations, inspections, and support
  • Monthly (or more frequent) inspection/ maintenance e-minders/emails/push notifications 
  • Battery and pad accessory expiration e-minders/emails/push notifications
  • Manage and track trained responders
  • 24×7 access to AED law library and AED document library
  • AED Rx
  • Physician oversight
  • AED response protocols
  • EMS notification
AED365:  Keeping YOUR AED program alive!

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

The Importance of AED Program Management

Author: Marcy Burnham

In the realm of emergency preparedness, few tools are as vital as Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). These devices can be literal lifesavers in critical moments of cardiac arrest, but like any tool, they require maintenance and inspection to ensure they’re ready when needed. Yet, with busy schedules and numerous responsibilities, it’s easy for these crucial checks to slip through the cracks. That’s where program management comes into play. Let’s explore how you can implement a systematic approach to AED inspection reminders, ensuring readiness and safety when it matters most.

AEDs are medical devices designed to deliver a life-saving shock to individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. However, their effectiveness hinges on proper functioning and maintenance. Regular inspections help identify issues such as expired batteries, electrode pads, or malfunctioning components, ensuring the AED is rescue-ready at all times.

Traditionally, AED inspection reminders relied on manual methods, such as calendars, spreadsheets, or simple checklists. While these approaches are better than no reminders at all, they come with limitations. Human error, overlooked entries, and lack of accountability can compromise the effectiveness of manual systems. Additionally, as organizations scale or manage multiple AEDs across various locations, manually tracking inspections becomes increasingly cumbersome and prone to oversight.

To address these challenges and streamline AED inspection reminders, program management is a wonderful alternative to pen and paper inspections and calendar reminders.

1. Utilize AED Management Software:
Invest in AED management software designed to automate inspection reminders and maintenance schedules. These platforms allow you to input AED details, including location, serial numbers, and expiration dates. They then generate automated reminders for inspection, battery replacement, pad expiration, and other maintenance tasks.

2. Establish a Centralized Database:
Maintain a centralized database containing comprehensive information about each AED under your purview. This database should include installation dates, last inspection dates, maintenance history, and any relevant notes. A well-organized database facilitates tracking and ensures nothing slips through the cracks.

3. Assign Responsibility:
Clearly define roles and responsibilities regarding AED maintenance within your organization. Designate individuals or teams tasked with overseeing inspections, responding to reminders, and performing necessary maintenance. Accountability fosters a culture of diligence and ensures that inspections are prioritized.

4. Regular Training and Education:
Provide regular training sessions to personnel responsible for AED maintenance. Ensure they understand the importance of timely inspections, how to perform them correctly, and what to do in case of identified issues. Education enhances competency and empowers staff to fulfill their roles effectively.

In emergencies, every second counts, and the reliability of AEDs can be a matter of life and death. By implementing a systemic approach to AED inspection reminders, organizations can enhance readiness, decrease risks, and ultimately save lives. Utilizing technology, establishing clear protocols, and fostering a culture of accountability are key steps in ensuring that AEDs remain reliable assets in times of crisis. Remember, proactive maintenance today can make all the difference tomorrow!

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

Navigating Accountability: A Lesson from Henry County EMS

Author: Brady McLaughlin

In a recent and noteworthy legal development, the Kentucky Court of Appeals delivered a ruling that has sent ripples through emergency medical services across the nation. On March 8, 2024, in the case (No. 2022-CA-1330-MR), the court determined that Henry County Emergency Medical Services personnel, EMT Kristian Brock and paramedic Christopher Stone, could be held personally liable for a wrongful death. This case stems from events dating back to September 2017, which culminated in a tragedy partly due to delayed response times and equipment failure.

The Incident Unfolds

The incident in question began with a distress call to Henry County EMS, reporting an individual suffering from chest pain. Brock and Stone were dispatched to the scene, situated merely 3.8 miles from the station. However, the duo’s reliance on Active911, a third-party GPS navigation app, led them off course, resulting in a delayed 16-minute response time. Upon arrival, the situation worsened as the patient went into full cardiac arrest, and attempts to use a LifePak 12 defibrillator were thwarted by a malfunction, culminating in the patient’s untimely demise.

Legal Proceedings and Implications

The subsequent lawsuit targeted not only Henry County EMS but also Brock and Stone, both in their official capacities and personally. While the court upheld the governmental immunities protecting the county and the individuals in their official roles, it drew a line when it came to personal responsibility. The lawsuit against Brock and Stone was allowed to proceed, spotlighting their failure to adhere to critical protocols, including routine equipment checks and the use of authorized navigation tools.

The ruling sheds light on the absence of governmental immunity due to their negligence in following county-established guidelines, notably the checks and balances concerning AED (Automated External Defibrillator) usage and maintenance.

Reflections and Takeaways

This case serves as a potent reminder of the weight of responsibility shouldered by emergency services personnel. It underscores the paramount importance of strict adherence to operational protocols and equipment maintenance – not only as a matter of legal compliance but, more importantly, as a matter of public safety.

For EMS departments and professionals nationwide, this ruling highlights the necessity of:

  • Establishing and enforcing clear AED inspection and maintenance policies.
  • Conducting regular and thorough equipment checks in line with these policies.
  • Maintaining meticulous records of all maintenance activities and inspections.

While the ruling is directly relevant to Kentucky’s public employees, its implications extend far beyond state lines, offering critical insights for AED programs and emergency response protocols nationwide. It is a clarion call for all emergency medical services to reevaluate and reinforce their operational procedures and training programs, ensuring that the tragic events of Henry County do not repeat elsewhere.

The case of Brock and Stone is a sobering reminder that in the fast-paced, high-stakes world of emergency medical services, there is no room for error. The safety of the community and the legal and personal accountability of EMS professionals hang in the balance, hinging on each decision made and action taken in the line of duty.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

Emotional Support Following Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Author: Marcy Burnham

Facing a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a life-altering experience, not only for the survivor but also for their loved ones. While medical treatment and rehabilitation are crucial aspects of recovery, the emotional journey following such a traumatic event is often overlooked but equally significant. It’s a path filled with various emotions, uncertainties, and adjustments. Emotional support plays a pivotal role in the healing process. It provides survivors with the reassurance, validation, and understanding they need to cope with their feelings and adjust to life post-SCA. Here are some key aspects of emotional support for survivors:

  • Validation of Feelings: Survivors need to know that it’s okay to feel scared, anxious, or overwhelmed. Validating their emotions creates a safe space for them to express themselves without judgment.
  • Empathetic Listening: Sometimes, survivors just need someone to listen without offering solutions or advice. Empathetic listening involves being fully present and attentive to their concerns, allowing them to articulate their feelings openly.
  • Encouragement and Affirmation: Offering words of encouragement and affirmation can boost a survivor’s confidence and self-esteem. Remind them of their strength and resilience as they navigate the challenges of recovery.
  • Access to Support Groups: Connecting with other survivors who have experienced similar challenges can be immensely beneficial. Support groups provide a sense of community, understanding, and shared experiences, helping survivors feel less isolated.
  • Professional Counseling: In some cases, survivors may benefit from professional counseling or therapy to address underlying emotional issues or trauma. A trained therapist can offer valuable tools and coping strategies to manage stress, anxiety, or depression.

Surviving sudden cardiac arrest is a significant milestone, but the journey to recovery extends far beyond the physical realm. Emotional support plays a crucial role in helping survivors navigate the complexities of their feelings and adjust to life post-SCA. Let’s work together to help survivors rebuild their lives with resilience, courage, and hope along their journey to healing physically and emotionally.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

AED’s in Extreme Temperatures

Author: Marcy Burnham

Now that you’ve purchased your AED, placed it in its assigned area/cabinet, and it’s ready to rescue, it’s time to think about AED functionality in extreme temperatures.  Throughout the United States, we have been seeing record low and high temperatures over the past few years.  It is vital to have an AED present and ready to rescue.  We must also keep in mind that an AED is an electronic device which does have limits in extreme temperatures. Typically, the temperature range for normal AED operations is 32-122° F, since extreme temperatures can impact normal functions by draining the battery or altering the gel found in pads.  To avoid damage and assist your AED with normal functionality:

  • Keep the AED in a shady area out of direct sunlight.
  • Place your AED in a small, insulated bag or cooler that has CLEARLY been marked so it is easily found.
  • If you need to keep your AED in a vehicle, store it in the temperature-controlled cabin of the vehicle, and bring it inside at night.
  • Invest in an all-weather outdoor AED cabinet.
  • Inspect the AED monthly to ensure it is functioning properly.

In order to maximize the life of your AED, pads, and batteries, the AED should not be stored in temperatures above or below the manufacturer’s suggested range.  Keeping with these recommendations can make a difference in your AED’s rescue-readiness.  

If you feel the normal functions of your AED have been compromised due to extreme weather conditions, or you’re unable to get your AED ready to rescue, please feel free to reach out to us. 

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

AED Program Management in the Workplace

Author: Marcy Burnham

More than 356,000 people have an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in the United States every year, and 60%-80% of them die before reaching the hospital. About 10,000 of these cardiac arrests occurred in the workplace. It is vitally important that your facility has an AED present that is ready to rescue at a moment’s notice and that your employees are prepared to respond in the event of an emergency.    Below are some suggestions to consider when assessing and implementing safety in the workplace:

  • Assign a particular person or division to commit to promoting safety awareness
  • Keep AED’s and other safety equipment (First Aid Kits, Bleeding Control Kits, etc.) in highly visible, easily accessible areas 
  • Enroll your team in CPR, First Aid, and AED courses
  • Develop a Response Plan and practice emergency drills frequently
  • Invest in AED program management to ensure AED compliance and readiness to rescue   

Our goals at GoRescue and AED365 are to help ensure that you and your employees are adequately trained in CPR and AED use, and that your facility is properly protected with the correct safety equipment.  Let’s all work together to ensure we, as well as our coworkers, are prepared with the knowledge, resources, and skills to help save a life.  Who knows…the life that needs saving one day may be yours!

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]