Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Putting the “Medical” in Medical Fitness Pays Dividends for Two Center Members

Two recent events that occurred at Martin Memorial Hospital South Health and Fitness confirmed to me just how beneficial our medical fitness program can be for members.

On a Friday in January the health and fitness center was busy with people working out. Treadmills were humming, bikes were pedaling, elliptical machines were jamming and things were running like a well-oiled machine.

Until we heard a scream.

One of our members collapsed to the floor with a cardiac event. Fortunately, we had been trained for just such a scenario and immediately knew what to do. Our skills were put to the test and we passed with flying colors.

We initiated the 911 call and proceeded with our lifesaving skills. We used our automated external defibrillator (AED) and our CPR skills until the paramedics arrived. The end result is that we were able to save a life. The gentleman is doing fine now after having a defibrillator and pacemaker put in, and is actually back working out at our center. He looks and feels great!

About a month after that, we were faced with another member having heart issues. He had just completed his cardiovascular exercise and asked a question about his target heart rate. Then he told us that he was not working even close to his range but had a “chest pain.” Again, we took action. Vitals were taken and he was trying to convince us that he was fine.

After assessing his vitals and reviewing his health history, we called the paramedics. He was admitted and had a cardiac catheterization which showed a 90 percent blockage. The doctors put in a stent and he now has an unclogged artery. If it had not been detected, he could have had a major heart attack. Once again, this is where Martin Memorial Health and Fitness makes a difference!

We are the only medically directed fitness center on the Treasure Coast with six convenient locations. All of our staff must meet strict standards and possess advanced fitness certifications. All staff must also maintain a current certificate in automated external defibrillation (AED) and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Our fitness center members range from students to seniors, and our exercise programs are designed to accommodate all fitness levels. And as these two situations proved, it can be good to know that the health and fitness staff are trained for whatever situations may arise.

--Jane Reynolds
Health and Fitness Technician
Hospital South Health and Fitness

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