MDEWAKANTON LIFE PROGRAM
The purpose of the Mdewakanton LIFE Program is to create greater awareness, availability, and knowledge of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automatic external defibrillators (AED's), as well as, a faster first response to a cardiac incidence not only within our community but within our neighboring communities as well. To achieve these goals, the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community is reaching out through the Mdewakanton Fire Department to train first responders and place AED units throughout our area.
What Is Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)?
The most common cause of sudden cardiac arrest is an electrical malfunction of the heart called ventricular fibrillation (VF). VF causes the heart muscle to quiver making it unable to pump blood to the heart, brain, and other organs of the body. Brain death and permanent death start to occur in just 4-6 minutes after someone experiences SCA.
What is Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)?
When SCA occurs the heart stops pumping blood and the victim stops breathing. CPR is a combination of rescue breathing and chest compressions delivered to the victim thought to be in SCA. CPR can support a small amount of blood flow to the heart and brain and buy time until an AED or more definitive care can be used. The victim’s chances of survival are reduced 7-10% with every minute that passes without defibrillation. CPR can help give the victim more time.
What is an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED)?
An automatic external defibrillator is a small portable electronic device that can be used by trained non-professionals as well as Emergency Medical professionals. It analyzes the heart’s rhythm and tells the user to deliver a defibrillation shock only if needed. An AED will give voice prompts and screen displays to aid the user in how to attach the external electrodes, when to do CPR, when to stand clear while the AED is analyzing, and when to deliver an electrical shock to the victim if needed.
How Do I request an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) through the LIFE program?
Having an AED in areas of increased population has a high potential of saving a life. Apply online or send a letter with the following information:
- Organization name and director’s name.
- Description of organization/purpose.
- How the AED will be utilized.
- Area and population your organization serves.
- Contact name, telephone number, and address.
Submit an ONLINE REQUEST for an AED
Who May Receive an AED?
Priority is given to American Indian tribes in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wisconsin, first responding agencies, and government agencies. Although we receive many worthy requests, currently, because of the large volume of requests we are unable to consider for-profit businesses, agencies serving less than 50 clients, churches outside of Scott County, and non-profits outside of the five-state area.
How Soon Will My Organization Receive an AED?
Based on our priority list, eligible requests will be put on a waiting list. When your organization’s name comes up you will receive your AED. We are able to place only 10-15 a month. Wait time can be over a year due to volume of requests.
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