Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) Emergency Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish procedures to prevent, recognize, and respond to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in youth cheerleaders, coaches, staff, and spectators during practices, games, performances, and team-related events.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:
 -All cheerleaders
 -Coaches and assistant coaches
 -Team staff and volunteers
 -Practices, competitions, performances, camps, and travel events

3. Definition

Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a life-threatening condition in which the heart suddenly stops beating effectively. It can occur without warning and requires immediate CPR and use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to improve survival.

4. Prevention & Preparedness

A. Pre-Participation Requirements
 -All cheerleaders must complete a pre-participation physical examination annually.
 -Parents/guardians must disclose any known heart conditions, symptoms, or family      history of cardiac disease.
 -Cheerleaders with known cardiac conditions must provide medical clearance before participation.

B. Training
  -At least one coach or designated adult present at all practices and events must be   CPR/AED certified.
  -Coaches will receive annual training on:
     -Recognizing signs of cardiac distress
     -Emergency action procedures
     -Proper AED use

C. AED Access
  -An AED must be accessible within 3 minutes of all practices and events.
  -Coaches must know:
      -The exact location of the AED
      -How to access it quickly
  -AED batteries and pads will be checked regularly according to manufacturer                  guidelines.

5. Recognition of Cardiac Emergency

Coaches, staff, and athletes should watch for:
  -Sudden collapse or unresponsiveness
  -No breathing or abnormal breathing
  -No pulse
  -Complaints of chest pain, dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath
  -Seizure-like activity following collapse
Any collapse should be treated as SCA until proven otherwise.

6. Emergency Response Procedures

If Sudden Cardiac Arrest is suspected:

  1. Call 911 immediately
   -Assign a specific person to make the call.
  
  2. Begin CPR
   -Start chest compressions immediately.
 
  3. Retrieve and use the AED
   -Turn it on and follow voice prompts.

  4. Continue care
   -Continue CPR and AED use until EMS arrives.

  5. Crowd Control
   -Move other athletes away to allow emergency access.

7. Post-Incident Procedures

   -The athlete may not return to activity on the same day.
   
   -Written medical clearance from a licensed physician is required before                 returning to cheerleading.

   -The incident must be documented and reported to the league or school                      administration.

   -Parents/guardians will be notified immediately.

8. Return-to-Play

  A cheerleader who experiences SCA or related symptoms must:
 
    -Be evaluated by a cardiologist or qualified physician

    -Provide written clearance

    -Follow a gradual return-to-activity plan as directed by medical professionals

9. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as needed to reflect best practices and local/state requirements.

10. Acknowledgment

All coaches, staff, and parents/guardians must acknowledge understanding of this policy prior to participation.