It can be very easy for anyone to say that they are ready to face any emergency situation. In truth, the only time that we can check whether we are ready for such or not is when danger and emergency is already staring us at the face. Nevertheless, being ready and knowing what to do in such situations is a must. Having said that, it comes as no surprise that more and more people are actually taking the time to learn about the various ways that they can help in saving another person’s life. One of these many ways is through an AED.
AED stands for Automated External Defibrillator. In most cases, a responder makes use of the AED in order to administer electric jolts to a person suffering from cardiac arrhythmias and ventricular tachycardia. This portable electronic device typically comes with two pads, a portable electronic control, and wires that attach the pads to the system. The electronic control panel usually comes with a screen that provides the user with the needed information in order to determine whether there is a need for the electrical jolts or not. What the AED typically does is stop the heart beat in order to give it enough time to regain its normal beating pattern.
Generally, one would need to have a training in the use of AED in order to run this device properly. In most states, a 2-year AED/ CPR Certification cards are issued to those who have successfully completed a training. These trainings are typically free and are generally required as a compliance to various state laws as well as the American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines.
People interested in securing their own AED would have to keep in mind a number of things. For one, the AED should have a voice prompt feature that can help rescuers just listen to the information being provided by the machine instead of them having to look up every now and then. One also has to keep in mind that the availability of AED for residential use is not something that is required by law, although it might prove to be a big help. Only businesses and commercial establishments are required by state laws to have at least one (1) unit of AED available in the most convenient area. Having said that, homeowners who would like to make use of an AED need not seek a certification in order for them to operate the device. All they have to do is watch the training video that comes with the AED that they have purchased.
Of course, it also pays to keep in mind that not all cases of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) can be dealt with using AED. In some cases, CPR would do just fine.
If you need help setting up your own AED program, you can always get in touch with such institutions as the Citywide CPR as they can provide you with the needed training and program management services in order for your AED program to be a success.
