Partnership with Southeastern Idaho Public Health brings more AEDs to the Pocatello campus

This partnership has helped Idaho State University install automated external defibrillators, commonly referred to as AED, in new locations, including the Business Technology Center, fine arts building, facilities services, the museum building, Gale Life Sciences complex, and near Davis Field.

AEDs are just one of the vital pieces of safety equipment available at ISU. The Department of Public Safety currently maintains over 60 AEDs for the Pocatello, Idaho Falls, and Meridian campuses. Most campus AEDs are in publicly accessible locations, making it easy for anyone to grab one in the event of a campus emergency. Public Safety officers also have a portable device they can use when traveling to medical emergencies on campus.

What is an AED?
An AED is used to help those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. This medical device can analyze the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electrical shock to help restore normal heart rhythm.

How do I locate the AEDs on campus?
AED location information is available on the ISU Campus Map. For the Pocatello campus, click the arrow next to Campus Safety, then check the box for AED locations. For Idaho Falls and Meridian, use the drop down arrow in the top left side of the screen to select the campus, click the arrow next to Safety and Amenities, and then check the box for AED locations.

Who should use an AED?
While it is important for everyone to know where the nearest AED is located and what symptoms may indicate that a person is experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, the device should only be used by individuals who are trained to do so. To learn more about how an AED works and how to obtain training, visit the Public Safety website.

What do I do if I suspect someone is experiencing sudden cardiac arrest or
other medical emergency?

Remain calm and immediately call 911 or the Department of Public Safety
to request assistance.

• Provide the physical address of the building and a description of where you
  are located inside the building.
• If requested, remain on the line with the dispatcher until help arrives.
• If there is an AED nearby, ask someone to grab it while you stay with the victim.
• If possible, remain with the victim and have someone else meet with first responders upon arrival at the building. This will help ensure emergency medical services are able to reach the location as quickly as possible.

Remember, only provide first aid to the level at which you are trained to do so. Medical emergencies on campus are rare, but they do happen. Public Safety Officers are trained to provide some medical treatment, however, in the event of a life-threatening medical emergency, always call 911 first.

Please report all medical emergencies to the Department of Public Safety at (208) 282-2515 and visit our website to learn more about medical emergencies on campus.