An internal review has concluded correct protocols were followed when an Alberta 55 Plus Winter Games athlete collapsed to the ice and later died during competition, the City of St. Albert announced Wednesday.
The city review found staff responded to the emergency within minutes and used CPR and an external defibrillator on Marvin Klein, a 68-year-old from Gwynne who suffered a heart attack while playing goal in 65-plus men’s hockey at Servus Credit Union Place on Feb. 25.
An ambulance responded to the scene within nine minutes, seven seconds, virtually within the target of nine minutes, 90 per cent of the time that has been the traditional standard in St. Albert.
“First and foremost, the City of St. Albert is saddened by the loss of life endured at the event,” said Mayor Nolan Crouse, in a press release. “In reviewing this occurrence, we wanted to ensure that the proper protocol is in place and we are prepared and equipped to manage similar incidents in the future.”
The review did identify two areas for improvement, though the city claims neither impeded emergency response in the games tragedy.
Servus Place staff will increase the visibility of its address throughout the facility to ensure patrons can relay that information more easily in an emergency situation. Staff are also working to ensure all phones in city buildings are set up so the emergency dispatch centre can confirm the location of where the call originated.
The 2011 Alberta 55 Plus Winter Games were held in St. Albert from Feb. 24 to 27.
Read more in Saturday’s Gazette.
