Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) Protocol
Protecting Student-Athletes from Sudden Cardiac Arrest
This protocol aligns with the Official CIF Sudden Cardiac Arrest Guidelines.
What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)?
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is not a heart attack. It is an abnormality in the heart's electrical system that abruptly stops the heartbeat. SCA is typically caused by an undetected congenital or genetic heart condition.
SCA is the #1 Killer of Student Athletes.
SCA is time critical. If not properly treated within minutes, it is fatal in 92% of cases.
Possible Warning Signs
While SCA can happen unexpectedly, up to 72% of cases are preceded by symptoms. These symptoms can be unclear in athletes and are often confused with physical exhaustion:
- Unexplained fainting (#1 symptom of a potential heart condition)
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Racing or fluttering of heartbeat (palpitation)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Extreme fatigue (tiredness)
- Family history of SCA or unexplained sudden death under the age of 50
The Eric Paredes Sudden Cardiac Arrest Prevention Act
California state law (AB 1639) requires all schools to adhere to strict SCA protocols to protect student-athletes.
Key Requirements:
- Annual Information Review: Student-athletes and parents/guardians must review and sign an SCA Information sheet as part of their annual sports clearance packet.
- Immediate Removal from Play: A coach must remove a student from play if the student exhibits fainting or other symptoms believed to be cardiac-related.
- Return-to-Play Protocol: The student-athlete must be evaluated and cleared by a physician, surgeon, nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant to return to play.
