Implementation of cardiac emergency response plan in primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong: A cross‐sectional survey of local physical education teachers
Victor Chi Wing Tam, Tim Sang Chin, Nelson Chun Yiu YeungAbstract
Background
Sudden cardiac arrests at school are rare but devastating events among student athletes, with significant psychosocial impact on teachers and students. The American Heart Association advocates for Cardiac Emergency Response Plans (CERP) to improve survival, yet evidence from Asia remains limited. In Hong Kong (HK), despite widespread installation of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) at schools, the extent of CERP implementation remains unclear.
Objectives
This study aimed to examine the current status of CERP implementation in primary and secondary schools in HK.
Methods
A cross‐sectional online survey was conducted between December 2024 and July 2025 among local physical education (PE) teachers recruited through the HK PE Teachers' Society. Respondents' training background on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and AED, experiences with handling cardiac emergencies, and the presence of CERP elements at school were examined.
Results
Among 122 valid responses, most respondents reported the presence of AEDs (91.8%), reliable communication systems (87.6%), trained personnel (84.4%), venue‐specific CERP indicating AED locations (74.4%), CERP coordinators (63.9%), and AED maintenance (59.8%) at the school where they work. However, fewer schools reported conducting CERP reviews and rehearsals (30.3%) or medical timeouts before sports events (36.1%). Nearly all teachers had CPR training (97.5%), though fewer held valid certifications (CPR: 77.7%; AED: 41.0%).
Conclusions
CERP implementation in HK schools is comparable to international findings, with AED installation being the most established element. Nonetheless, gaps remain in CERP reviews, rehearsals, and medical timeouts. Strengthening these practices is essential to enhance preparedness and safeguard students during school sports events.