April 18, 2008 - Royal Philips Electronics said today it is the sole provider of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and advanced life support (ALS) monitor/defibrillators for the 112th Boston Marathon, which will be run on April 21.
The strategic deployment of Philips HeartStart AEDs and ALS monitor/defibrillators will equip the Boston Marathon Medical Team to respond promptly to the medical needs of runners and spectators alike.
Philips will provide 31 HeartStart MRx Monitor/Defibrillators and 36 HeartStart AEDs to cover the race, including along the course and at first aid stations, medical tents and Red Cross stations. These devices will be ready to support the more than 1,200 medical and nursing personnel that will staff the event.
The HeartStart MRx Monitor/Defibrillator provides advanced functionality with the fastest time to shock of any monitor/defibrillator, Philips said. It has the ability to diagnose both routine and critical conditions, such as acute myocardial infarction (heart attack).
“The health and safety of all runners, as well as spectators, of the Boston Marathon is our highest priority,” said Pierre D’Hemecourt, M.D., co-medical director for the Boston Athletic Association. “Race amenities such as fluids, medical care and traffic safety are standard protocol, and with Philips HeartStart AEDs and ALS monitors throughout the course, we are prepared to treat a number of medical emergencies rapidly and effectively.”
Deemed one of the world’s most prestigious and oldest annual road racing events, the Boston Marathon draws more than 500,000 spectators along the 26.2-mile course, making it New England’s most widely viewed sporting event. However, with more than 20,000 official runners, each year the event presents an opportunity to sharpen emergency preparedness skills.
In the case of sudden cardiac arrest, a rapid response is the most important factor in saving a victim's life. At this year's marathon, defibrillators will be available at every milepost, assuring prompt medical attention regardless of a runner's location on the course. Additionally, HeartStart MRx ALS monitors will allow medical staff to assess and triage patients on-site.
For more information: www.medical.philips.com.