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For driving directions to our locations select either the Waterville or Augusta link above. |
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Tim Russert's recent death focuses attention on AEDs in the workplace - 7/8/2008
Where was the defibrillator? Approximately 300,000 people in the United States die suddenly from cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest means that the heart ceases to pump blood effectively due to an electrical disturbance which complicates nearly half of all heart attacks.
The recent death of NBC Newsman, Tim Russert, has again focused attention on this tragic and potentially treatable problem. Early treatment using an AED (automated external defibrillators) could save well over half of these individuals. Although we encourage training in basic life support (BLS), an AED may be used by nearly anyone. The sooner the AED is used, (preferably within a few minutes of a person’s collapse) the more likely the person’s life will be saved.
AED’s are now placed in many public areas such as airports and train stations as well as many places of employment. As our workforce ages, the placement of these devices in the workplace becomes more and more important.
It is important to address and intensify our efforts at prevention through smoking cessation, reduction of harmful triglycerides and cholesterol, exercise, weight loss, and blood pressure control. This does not guarantee prevention of heart disease, but greatly reduces it. When a heart attack does occur, rapid treatment including possible AED use is essential.
Workplace Health at MaineGeneral is taking a collaborative approach with local employers to assist with developing a comprehensive AED Management Program specific to each worksite needs and location.
For more information about implementing an AED program at your worksite contact:
Workplace Health Clinical Manager, Kevin Ward, RN, APRN, COHN-S
207-626-7223
Maine CDC Advises Caution in Heat - 6/10/2008
Maine CDC Advises Caution in Heat –
Keep Cool, Drink Adequate Fluids, and Rest Frequently
With Maine heading into summer, it is important for all of us to prevent heat-related problems and to recognize the signs of heat illness early. Heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable, yet over the past 30 years more people have died in this country from heat than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes combined.
All Mainers should take some simple measures to prevent heat-related illness. However, those who are most susceptible include infants and young children, people 65 years old and older, people with a mental illness, and those who are physically ill with heart disease or high blood pressure.
For tips on how to beat the heat visit:
http://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/index.php?topic=Portal+News&id=57163&v=article-2008
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