An automated external defibrillator is key when it comes to diagnosing potentially fatal cardiac arrhythmias and then treating them. This portable electronic device first checks a person's heart rhythm and then recognizes a rhythm that is need of a shock. It uses a combination of audio prompting, lights and even text messages to tell the operator what to do and what steps to take. When you combine an automated external defibrillator with a trained user, many more lives get saved!
Automatic external defibrillators are designed to be used by the average person – preferably someone who has some specialized training. These devices are not as sophisticated as the semi-automatic defibrillators that are used by professionals. The semi-automatic defibrillators can also act as pacemakers.
Automated external defibrillators are both very precise and easy to use; a person can become adept in their use within a matter of hours. While there are many different brands of AED, there is no one model that is recommended by the American Heart Association. The AHA even recommends that all emergency rescue services have an automated external defibrillator at their disposal. There is also a strong suggestion towards placing these life-saving devices in public places, like malls, libraries and community centers. Since the training for using an automated external defibrillator is so fast, most of the emergency response personnel can get up to speed in using one in extremely short order.
Even though an AED is easy to use, training is still required to figure out when it should be used at all. Sudden cardiac arrest is what these machines are designed to combat, but the first treatment will often be CPR. The automatic external defibrillator will often recommend that CPR be given while the diagnostic is being run.
If you're interested in purchasing an automated external defibrillator, you may be required to present a physician's prescription for the device. When you get it, your local EMS system can inform you about protocols and state requirements for its use and for training. You might also want to find a physician who will make sure that the quality control and maintenance of the device is kept up.
Whether you are in charge of a facility that you think can benefit from an automatic external defibrillator, or you feel that one of your local organizations should have one, this is definitely a device that bears further investigation.