Cardiac arrest is a serious medical emergency that occurs when the heart suddenly stops functioning. This leads to a cessation of breathing and heartbeat, which can become fatal if not treated promptly. Fortunately, there are several institutes where you can receive training in lifesaving techniques, including acquiring your AED certification.
Defibrillators are life-saving devices designed to restore a normal heart rhythm. These user-friendly devices can be operated by anyone, even without medical expertise. This blog post will provide an overview of defibrillators, including how they work, how to use them, and where they can be found.
Automated External Defibrillators
Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are essential devices that can save lives by quickly responding to sudden cardiac arrest. AEDs function by delivering an electrical shock to the heart, which can restore a normal cardiac rhythm. Increasingly, AEDs are becoming more prominent in various locations such as colleges, workplaces, and sports venues. This is because immediate usage of AEDs can be life-saving.
What are Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)?
- Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are portable electronic devices that provide an electric shock to restore a normal heart rhythm in individuals experiencing cardiac arrest. AEDs play a critical role in performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
- AEDs are designed to be user-friendly, and even individuals without medical training can efficiently operate them.
- Automated external defibrillators are increasingly prevalent in public spaces like business parks, schools, and sports facilities, making them more accessible and easy to find.
- If you encounter an individual who is unresponsive and not breathing, it is crucial to call emergency services at 911 without delay.
A Brief History of AED
Automated External Defibrillators, or simply AEDs, have a crucial role in helping restore the heart rhythm of someone undergoing cardiopulmonary resuscitation, also known as CPR.
- In 1965, Dr. Paul Zoll is credited with inventing the AED device.
- At first, AED machines were quite cumbersome, and their operation required specialized medical training. Nevertheless, advancements during the 1980s paved the way for newer models of AED devices, which opened up their use to just about anyone since no complex medical know-how was needed anymore.
- Today, you will find AED units in schools, workplaces, and sports arenas.
- Extensive studies have shown that incorporating AED technology in emergency response can significantly improve survival rates for individuals who suffer from arrest.
Seven steps to use AED and where to locate one
- Step 1: Ensure that your surroundings are safe. Confirm that the area is secure enough to approach the injured individual.
- Step 2: Dial emergency services immediately. This should be your primary action if the person isn’t breathing.
- Step 3: Activate the AED device. The AED will provide you with instructions throughout the entire process.
- Step 4: Attach the AED electrodes to the person’s chest. The sensors will automatically detect their heart rhythm.
- Step 5: If the AED advises, administer an electric shock by pressing the shock button. Electrocution can help reestablish a normal heart rhythm.
- Step 6: Keep performing CPR until professional help arrives. Irrespective of whether or not the AED was successful, continuing CPR is vital to maintain blood flow toward crucial organs like the brain.
- Step 7: Remain by their side till medical professionals arrive.
Location of the AED
- AEDs are typically placed in public places like schools, businesses, and sports stadiums.
- AEDs can be found in some airports, train stations, and other transportation hubs. If you’re not sure where to get an AED, you can ask a staff member or look for signs indicating the location of the AED.
Conclusion
In short, automated external defibrillators (AEDs) play a role in saving lives. They effectively treat sudden cardiac arrest and can be employed by anyone, regardless of medical training.