|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
Automated External Defibrillators
Automated External Defibrillators (AED) are small electronic devices that can be
used to treat cardiac arrest at the point of a heart attack. AED's are designed
and placed to be used by anyone ranging from a helpful bystander to a certified
EMT. They can be found in hospitals, stadiums, airports, large and small
workplaces, other public areas, and even for at home usage. Automated External
Defibrillators are typically comprised of a set of electrically conductive pads
that are placed on the cardiac arrest patients chest. These devices
automatically analyze and determine if the patient is in arrest, and then
calibrate to a preset level for issuing an electric shock to combat the arrest.
After the operator issues the initial diagnosed shock, the automated external
defibrillator re-evaluates and then re-calibrates a charge if additional
electrical shocks are necessary.
Automated External Defibrillators (AED) are beginning to to make emergency
defibrillation widely accessible to cardiac arrest victims via community based
programs. AEDs are being placed in the hands of trained laypersons for earlier
response to cardiac arrest patients and bringing a greater chance of survival.
It is estimated that widespread availability of AED's could save as many as
50,000 lives nationally each year. The Government is leading the charge: OSHA
stated - “Employers should consider the use of AEDs at their worksites to reduce
the time to defibrillation with the goal of improving survival.” $50 million
annually was set aside for communities to establish public access defibrillation
programs via the Community AED Act of 2001. Through these efforts Automated
External Defibrillators are to now found in airports and office buildings across
the country.
FAQ's
Are AED's easy to use?
AED's are relatively easy to use however, the operator
should recognize the signs of a sudden cardiac arrest, be able to give CPR and
should contact emergency personnel. Training on the specific AED is highly
recommended.
How do I receive AED training?
The American Heart Association provides AED
training through their collecting of training centers. Contact your local office
for details or visit the American Heart Associations main site for details on
their Heartsaver AED Course. This course combines both CPR and AED training.
Can using an AED hurt someone or make a heart attack worse?
AED's are designed
so that they will only shock a person whose heart rhythm is within certain
parameters. As long as it is just one person being touched by an AED, its
unlikely that you will hurt anyone.
Who can purchase an AED?
The FDA establishes guidelines for manufacturing and
selling AED's. The FDA currently requires a physician's prescription for the
purchase of an automated external defibrillator.
How much does one cost?
The price varies by manufacturer and features of the
products. The typical AEDs price range: $2,000-$4000.
Related Health Care Products:
Defibrillators
Types of Defibrillators
Automated External Defibrillators
Implantable Cardioverter
Defibrillator Manufacturers / Resources
Related Health Care Information:
Defibrillation History
Heart Information
Yes - this is a hard one to spell correctly! Med students take note. Here are some common attempts:
defib,
defibrillator,
defibrillater,
defribulator,
defibrulator,
defibulator,
difibrillator,
difibulator,
difribulator,
defribulator,
defribrillator,
defibrilator
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
