Heart Condition Description

‘Heart conditions may be caused by structural problems with the way the heart is formed, heart muscle problems or problems with the electrical system of the heart e.g. cardiac rhythm disorders, congenital heart disease. As each child’s heart condition is unique it is important that there be communication with child’s parents/physician to explain the child’s condition, management and emergency treatment while at school and on approved school trips.’

Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndrome (SADS)

SADS refers to a variety of cardiac arrhythmia disorders which are often genetic and can be responsible for sudden death in young, apparently healthy people.  An arrhythmia usually causes the heart to beat too fast, too slow or irregularly. It is usually caused by a heart condition that affects the heart’s electrical system. Warning signs:

  • fainting or seizure during exercise, excitement or startle
  • consistent or unusual chest pain and/or shortness of breath during exercise

Heart Condition Protocol

The Heart Condition Protocol​ outlines the procedures for school administrators and staff to follow in managing and providing emergency treatment for students diagnosed by a physician with a heart condition.

Heart Condition Information Package for Parents

°Õ³ó±ðÌý Heart Condition Parent Guardian Package provides parents with information on the commitment to your child’s health at the school level, and the shared responsibility of the Board, school staff, and your family to meet the health needs of your child. Parents are asked to read the package carefully for more information and to follow up with your child’s school to complete all necessary documents and treatment forms.

Sudden Arrythmia Death Syndrome Protocol and Parent Guardian Information

The HCDSB Sudden Arrythmia Death Syndrome Protocol​  outlines the procedures for school administrators and staff to follow in managing and providing emergency treatment for students who exhibit symptoms of SADS e.g. faint or seizure during exercise, excitement or startle.