Should Everyone Have An AED?
An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a literal lifesaver. It’s easy to use and can be a difference between life and death. So, should everyone have an AED?
An AED is a portable device that analyzes a patient's heart rhythm and determines whether they're in ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia and needs an electric shock to restore normal rhythm in the event of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). The AED provides an automated voice instruction on how to use it on the person who needs help. When someone suffers cardiac arrest, every minute without cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or defibrillation decreases the chance of survival by 10%. In addition to increasing survival rates, early use of AEDs also improves neurological outcomes after resuscitation.
The good news is that cardiac arrest can almost always be treated by using an AED. And these devices are now so easy to use that every home should have one, along with many public spaces — schools, airports, office buildings, sport and fitness facilities, and more!
Can AEDs Be Owned By Anyone?
Yes, they can! You don't need any medical training or certification to buy an AED and as long as you follow the manufacturer's instructions, anyone can use an AED safely and effectively.
Some people worry about the legal liability of using an AED but there's no reason to worry about that either — Canada has Good Samaritan laws that protect people who help others in emergencies. In most cases, you won't be held liable for anything that happens while using an AED.
How Do You Know If You Need An AED?
How do you know if your home or business needs an AED? AEDs are usually located in places such as airports, shopping malls, stadiums and other public spaces. They can also be found in many private homes and businesses.
There are several reasons why every home and public space should have an AED:
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Anyone can suffer from sudden cardiac arrest at any time, anywhere;
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SCAs are often fatal if not treated right away with immediate CPR measures;
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Only AEDs provide effective treatment to shock the heart back into rhythm;
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AEDs save lives.
In the end, it's clear that a growing number of lives can potentially be saved with the availability of AEDs in public places. Furthermore, home and business owners who want to protect themselves, their shareholders and employees, or their loved ones should consider purchasing an AED and placing it within easy access. It’s far better to have one and not need it, then need one and not have it.
Buy An AED, Save A Life
There's no way to predict who will go into cardiac arrest today, tomorrow or next week. However, there are certain groups of people who are at greater risk for sudden cardiac arrest: those with known heart disease; those who have suffered from a previous heart attack or stroke; those who have had elective surgery within the last 30 days; those who have been diagnosed with an irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia; and those who have an underlying medical condition such as diabetes that affects the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. Keeping an AED nearby ensures you’ll be ready for any emergency situation and it’s now easier than ever to buy an AED.
AED Advantage is a leading distributor of AEDs and AED replacement parts in North America. They employ a team of friendly and knowledgeable staff that are ready to answer your questions and help you find the right AED for your home or business. Buy an AED today, save a life tomorrow.
