Electronics has been of great help in our daily lives. It has brought us convenience in each our tasks so we can make the most of our time and effort. It has also helped us live a more comfortable and safer life in our homes, workplaces, and other places we stay at. Even when it comes to healthcare, electronics has also consistently enabled innovations to improve quality of life and to bring solutions to various health problems.
The automated external defibrillator or AED is just one of the most significant electronic medical equipment used today. Since it was developed, this computer-based emergency device has been useful to increase the chances of reviving the heart rhythm of a person who experiences seizure or any similar emergency cardiac condition. It has now become a common aid for maximizing the success rate of cardiopulmonary resuscitation or CPR. Thus, this medical device is now provided and secured in an accessible location of a public place or in some public vehicles. In this way, anyone could at least do something to immediately respond when the said critical scenario takes place.
Because it is an electronic device, it is inevitable that certain hazards come with it and should be noted of by the user. One is the concern on the power line of the equipment, which should be kept dry and intact without any opening or crack within its wire insulator. Hold the public at least two inches from its tip or just make sure that you are not holding any metallic part when plugging it. Also, you should see the labels for instructions on powering on the device, especially the voltage and power ratings. You may ask someone who is knowledgeable on electrical specifications if you don’t have any idea on safety measures when dealing with electricity.
Most AEDs today have a built-in display for instructions, operation status, and other important details. Other models even have a voice prompt for additional convenience to the user. There is also the manual that you can consult when you are too hesitant to try some functions for the first time. Moreover, another essential component of an AED that you should know well about is the defibrillator pads. The surface of these pads opposite to the handle should be taken care of very cautiously. These should never touch each other while the device is powered on. As much as possible, keep the two pads away from each other. The professional users suggest that one pad should be pressed on the patient’s upper right chest while the other is on his lower left chest. For young patients, it is advised that one pad is pressed between the two chests while the other is between the shoulder blades.
For more information about AEDs, you can go for an AED Medical Oversight and AED Program Management course. Citywide CPR offers extensive lectures and training regarding the use of AEDs as well as other related matters. Go for an an AED Medical Oversight and AED Program Management program now and find your way to become a professionally prepared AED rescuer!
