Sudden cardiac arrest on the field of play: turning tragedy into a survivable event

Sudden cardiac arrest remains the leading cause of death in exercising athletes, and recent studies have shown that it occurs more frequently than historical estimates. While out-of-hospital cardiac arrest often proves fatal, advance preparation can improve outcomes and the chance of survival. First responders to a collapsed athlete on the field of play may include team medical personnel, coaches, other athletes, officials, venue staff, emergency medical services personnel, or lay bystanders. Prompt and accurate recognition of sudden cardiac arrest, a comprehensive and rehearsed emergency action plan, early cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and immediate access to and use of an automated external defibrillator are each pivotal links in the chain of survival. This review summarises the components of an effective emergency action plan, highlights the critical role of automated external defibrillators, and reviews the diagnosis and management of sudden cardiac arrest on the field of play.