The American Heart Association and the Minnesota Department of Health recently recognized Mayo Clinic in Rochester as a Heart Safe business. This honor reflects the commitment of Mayo's teams to prepare for cardiac emergencies, provide exceptional care and lead by example in the community.
What the designation means
The designation program aims to save people from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) by helping businesses assess their preparedness for cardiac emergencies and find gaps where improvements can be made. Recognition is earned by demonstrating strength in key areas such as:
- CPR and automated external defibrillator (AED) training: Equipping staff with lifesaving skills.
- Cardiac Emergency Response Plan: Establishing clear, written steps to follow, allowing people to act quickly during a cardiac arrest to reduce deaths.
- AED placement: Ensuring AEDs are readily accessible.
- Community and awareness: Hosting education sessions, social media campaigns and community CPR/AED events.
- Workforce well-being initiatives: Offering resources and tools to support employee health.
How Mayo Clinic achieved this designation
The idea to apply for the Heart Safe business designation came from Jessica Nelson, a registered nurse in Heart Rhythm Services at Mayo Clinic, who brought it to the Mayo Clinic Cardiovascular Nursing Division Coordinating Council. The Council recognized the program's alignment with the Department of Nursing's goal to be a global leader and set the application process in motion, supported by a broad coalition across Mayo Clinic, including the leadership teams of Nursing, Legal, Emergency Medical Services (EMS - Gold Cross), Administration, Communications, Stroke and the Cardiovascular Department.
In a statement, members of the Mayo Clinic Cardiovascular Nursing Division Coordinating Council shared, "Because we are Mayo Clinic and set the example for many other healthcare institutions, we felt we should pursue this designation to highlight the outstanding work that the Department of Cardiology does in alignment with Mayo Clinic's top ratings."
This designation serves as a recognition of the hard work, dedication and excellence of Mayo Clinic's staff and reflects the organization's ongoing commitment to patient care, staff safety and community leadership.
Next Step: Heart Safe Community
This recognition is one of several affirmations of Mayo Clinic's highest level of care. The next goal is to pursue the Heart Safe Community designation in partnership with the City of Rochester.
