I just talked to someone at the Bell library. As far as she knows they do NOT have Automatic Defibulators. She said she would bring it up at the next meeting. I called the Rec Centers re AEDS and left a message. I'm waiting for a call back.
Linda called re AEDs in Rec Centers. They do NOT have them because of liability issues. Now, would someone please tell me why other places have them. Also, I believe there is a Good Samaritan Law and Rec Center person would not be held liable. I'll check on that. I think it is more of a money issue. If they let the old people die, someone buys the home and pays the buy in fee!!!!
Good Samaritan Law Every state, including Arizona, has a Good Samaritan law. Click HERE to learn more about it. When you are at the webpage click on Arizona to read it's official law.
Saving a strangers life can be more complicated than just a Good Samaritan law. It might seem that everyone would want someone to come to their rescue when needed. But some people would rather not be rescued. Not just saying they want to die, but because when you bring someone back the physical and mental limitations can be great from lack of oxygen to the brain for a period of time. With younger people we assume they want the chance, but with older people we are less certain. Also the older you get the more difficult it is to recover. Not saying you should not have AEDs in the Rec centers, it seems like it's a good idea. It's a tough decision sometimes. That could be the liability people are talking about too.
Truthfully I don't want to be revived if my heart stops. I just don't want to take the chance on coming back with a the potential lack of my faculties. So you never know the personal, deeper issues surrounding these things. Should people wear a do not resuscitate armband? I consider it sometimes. I've joked throughout the years (but not really a joke) that I want to tattoo that on my chest. This comes from a life of being a nurse and seeing the impact. Of course not everyone shares these views. And that's the problem.
The rec centers could have record of DNR's on hand. I have one and feel as you do Cynthia. I have had a great life and too much fun for one person so If my heart stops it will have been a good ride.
Even if you had a DNR signed paper in your wallet a paramedic must try to keep you alive till you reach a hospital......that's the law here in CO and in many states. I don't know what it is in AZ. But medics cannot make the decision to not revive you. My daughter is a 911 paramedic here in CO, and the source of my information.
Didn't know that archer. DNR is honored in a hospital setting. But Fiona, I don't think you can leave the responsibility of volunteers in a rec center to look up and follow a DNR. Not even sure if that would be legal. This is what I mean...it gets complicated. Of course for those who want all life saving measures, and many people do, the use of an AED is welcomed.
