Sudden Cardiac Arrest Information
The Dominic Murray Sudden Cardiac Arrest Prevention Act is a new law as of July 1, 2022. This law requires that schools, students, and parents/guardians have information on sudden cardiac arrest risks, signs, and symptoms. Please note that sudden cardiac arrest in children and youth is rare. The incidence of sudden cardiac death (SCD) on the playing field is 0.61 in 100,000.
To ensure the health and safety of our student athletes, and compliance with this new law, you will notice the following changes in your Final Forms Registrations for the new required sign off.
- Heart Condition Yes/No (Under past and ongoing Health conditions)
- Addition of SCA info and assumption of risk in Athletics Permission Form
Definition - Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is defined as the abrupt and unexpected loss of heart function. SCA can be fatal if not treated within minutes, and even with treatment death may occur. Immediate treatment is cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and use of an automatic external defibrillator (AED).
Signs or Symptoms
- Fainting or seizure, especially during or right after exercise or with excitement or startle
- Racing heart, palpitations, or irregular heartbeat
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or extreme fatigue with exercise
- Chest pain or discomfort with exercise
- Excessive shortness of breath during exercise
- Excessive, unexpected fatigue during or after exercise
Return to play - The law requires any student who has signs and symptoms of pending SCA to provide clearance from a licensed physician, MD/DO prior to being cleared for or participating in athletics.