Question 1

What is an AED?

Accepted Answer

An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a small, portable defibrillator device that delivers an electric shock delivered via the chest. Following sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), the shock may be used to stop an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) and allow a normal rhythm to resume.

Sudden cardiac arrest happens when the heart stops beating abruptly due to a defect and it is fatal if not addressed within minutes.

The majority of SCAs are caused by ventricular fibrillation. Ventricular fibrillation is a fast and unsynchronized heartbeat that begins in the lower chambers of the heart (the ventricles). Because a victim's likelihood of survival diminishes by seven to ten percent for every minute that a regular heartbeat isn't restored, the heart must be "defibrillated" rapidly. This is when a portable AED comes into play as a vital emergency response tool that contacts 911 to receive quick CPR, defibrillate a heart, and can be used by nonmedical personnel.

Question 2

How does an AED defibrillator work?

Accepted Answer

AEDs are extremely precise and simple to use, and anyone can learn to use an AED safely with the right training. AEDs come in a variety of styles and from different brands, but the same basic steps apply to all of them. There’s no specific model of AEDs that the American Heart Association recommends.

Through adhesive electrodes, a built-in computer in an AED monitors the victim's heart beat. The computer determines whether or not defibrillation is required, and if it is, a recorded voice instructs the rescuer to use the AED's shock button. This shock temporarily paralyzes the heart and brings it to a halt. It allows the heart to restore its normal beating pattern while the user is guided through the process. Voice prompts, lights, and text messages are used by the AED to instruct the rescuer on how to proceed. The AED shock response only occurs when it recognizes ventricular fibrillation or another life-threatening condition known as pulseless ventricular tachycardia.

CPR is an important aspect of providing lifesaving assistance to persons who have suffered a sudden cardiac arrest. CPR aids in the delivery of oxygen-rich blood to the brain. The conventional AED will tell the operator to continue CPR while the device analyzes the victim after the AED has been fitted and delivered a shock. According to the National Institutes of Health, 18,000 Americans experience shockable cardiac arrest outside of hospitals and in public with witnesses each year. Bystanders utilizing an AED instead of waiting for emergency medical services to shock the heart are estimated to save 1,700 lives each year.

Question 3

Who can purchase an AED?

Accepted Answer

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the standards for the manufacture and sale of AEDs. The FDA may impose requirements and a physician's prescription must be presented by anyone purchasing an AED. The cost of an AED varies according to the brand and type. The majority of AEDs cost between $1,500 and $2,000.

The AED should be included under an AED program that includes the following elements:
CPR and AED machine operating training for all users (this can be achieved through the AHA Heartsaver CPR AED course).
Physician supervision to ensure proper AED maintenance and use.
Notifying local EMS of the type of AED and its location(s).

The location of AEDs in the neighborhood is critical for the local EMS system. If an AED is on the premises, the 9-1-1 dispatcher will be able to notify the EMS system as well as the responders already on the scene in the case of a sudden cardiac arrest emergency. All designated responders shall be adequately trained, and the AED will be properly maintained, according to the licensed physician or medical authority. He or she can also assist businesses in developing an AED emergency response plan.

AEDs can be used by non-medical people such as police, firefighters, flight attendants, security guards, and other lay rescuers who have been trained in CPR. Although formal training in the use of an AED is not required, it is strongly suggested to help the rescuer gain confidence and comfort. However, AEDs are designed to be used by the general population. The device will guide the user through the process since most AEDs include audible voice prompts.

Question 4

Are AEDs required in my workplace?

Accepted Answer

While it is not a legal necessity for companies or organizations to acquire and provide AEDs in the workplace, several industries do have AED requirements. Every state protects AED users from liability, and different cities may have specific AED laws on a local level. In 1997, Florida became the first state to enact a broad public access law, and by 2010, all 50 states had passed laws or rules requiring the use of defibrillators.

Sports arenas, retail malls, airports, airlines, corporations, convention centers, hotels, schools, and doctors' offices should all have AEDs. They should also be present in any location where a large number of people congregate or where persons who are at high risk of heart attacks reside. They should be located near elevators, cafeterias, main reception areas, and main corridor walls.

The following are some examples of existing state AED requirements in the workplace:
Due to the risk of sudden cardiac arrest, dental offices that administer anesthesia in the state of Washington are mandated to have AEDs. New York has also approved laws requiring all dentists to have Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) on hand in their offices.
Exercise considerably raises the risk of Sudden Cardiac Arrest; hence, AED units are now required in several states' gyms and health clubs. Other facilities and businesses that serve athletes or require physical activity should strongly consider purchasing an AED. You may be able to find a member physician that can purchase an AED for your fitness facility or club. Your local EMS system can assist you in learning about local and state AED training and use regulations and requirements.
AEDs are becoming increasingly essential in buildings with high occupancy or capacity. If you work for a large company or a company with a lot of customers, you should think about getting an AED. AEDs are required in Oregon for establishments with more than 50,000 square feet of floor space and at least 25 individuals who congregate.

AEDs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is an AED?

How does an AED defibrillator work?

Who can purchase an AED?

Are AEDs required in my workplace?