Quick Actions and Skilled Care: How an Infirmary Health Athletic Trainer Saved a Life

At a recent youth tennis tournament, Infirmary Health Athletic Trainer Ashley Hines responded to a medical emergency that would ultimately save a spectator’s life. What started as a simple question about heartburn soon turned into an urgent situation. A bystander, experiencing chest pain radiating down his arm, complained of tightness and weakness—symptoms Ashley immediately recognized as the early signs of a heart attack.

Trained in emergency care, Ashley sprang into action. She assessed the patient, checked his pulse, and ensured he was seated while she sought aspirin from others on-site. Despite the patient’s request not to call 911, Ashley knew his symptoms could not be ignored. She took command of the situation, directing a bystander to meet the ambulance while the tournament director swiftly provided an AED.

Reflecting on the experience, Ashley shared, “In emergencies like this, it’s easy to panic, but our training prepares us to remain calm, take charge, and get people the help they need. Knowing what to do gave me confidence in the moment.”

With a cardiologist present and EMS arriving soon after, Ashley’s quick actions ensured the patient received life-saving care. At the hospital, it was confirmed that he had indeed suffered a heart attack and had a critical heart blockage, which, left untreated, could have been fatal.

Ashley added, “I hope this story highlights the importance of having medical professionals at sporting events. Athletic trainers save lives just as doctors and nurses do, and we are essential to the sporting community.”

This story serves as a reminder of the life-saving expertise athletic trainers like Ashley bring to events, demonstrating their vital role in ensuring the health and safety of athletes and spectators alike.