Acadiana High School has received a new automated external defibrillator (AED) and alarm box for its football stadium, thanks to a donation from Ochsner Lafayette General Sports Medicine. The unit will be available for all stadium events, including public gatherings and middle or elementary school games, enhancing safety for athletes, students, and spectators.
This donation is part of an ongoing AED initiative that began in August 2022 after Ochsner Lafayette General Sports Medicine identified a need for better access to AEDs at local school facilities. Since then, the organization has partnered with the Ochsner Lafayette General Foundation and Safety Management Systems—an affiliate of Acadian Companies—to place AEDs in both public and private high schools across Acadiana. To date, 55 AEDs have been distributed based on community need.
The device chosen for Acadiana High is compatible with AEDs used on all Acadian Ambulance units, allowing for a seamless transfer of care during an emergency. It also includes both adult and child electrodes, ensuring it can be used for a wide range of ages.
“This is about more than just the equipment,” said representatives from Ochsner Lafayette General Sports Medicine. “It’s about the policies, procedures, training, and emergency action plans that work hand in hand with these devices to deliver life-saving care when seconds matter.”
Ochsner Lafayette General Sports Medicine works closely with local schools to prepare for a variety of emergency situations, including sudden cardiac arrest, heat illness, spinal injuries, concussions, and lightning strikes. Each year, the team provides education for coaches, reviews venue-specific emergency action plans, and ensures athletic trainers are equipped with the tools and training needed to respond effectively.
While everyone hopes these devices will never be needed, the reality is that quick access to an AED can mean the difference between life and death. With this donation, Acadiana High and the broader school community are better prepared to respond in a crisis—setting a strong example of safety and preparedness across the region.
