May 8, 2008–The prevalence of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) has compelled main street dentists in Scotland to install defibrillators in their offices to speed up aid to patients who suffer from the condition.
NHS Lothian, which provides healthcare in Edinborough, has been awarded £55,000 to buy 52 defibrillators so that dentists and dental nurses can be trained to use the devices in the event of a cardiac arrest.
“As many dental practices are located centrally in high streets, they have the potential to make a huge difference to someone suffering from cardiac arrest,” said Brenda Cottam, the British Heart Foundation's (BHF) community resuscitation coordinator in Scotland.
The scheme could be extended to all of Scotland after results are assessed, said Public Health Minister Shona Robison.
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