Preventing sudden death on the athletic field: the emergency action plan.

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the leading cause of death in young athletes. Proper management of SCA in the athletic venue is critical. Preparation should include education and training, maintenance of emergency equipment and supplies, appropriate use of personnel, and the formation and implementation of an emergency action plan (EAP). The EAP should be specific to each individual athletic venue and encompass emergency personnel, emergency communication, emergency equipment, medical emergency transportation, and venue directions with map. With SCA, access to early defibrillation is essential. A target goal of under 5 minutes from time of collapse to first shock is strongly recommended. An automated external defibrillator should be part of standard emergency planning for coverage of athletic activities. Through development and implementation of an EAP, healthcare providers help to ensure that the athlete will have the best care provided when an emergency situation does arise.