An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable device used to shock the heart back into a regular rhythm. It is used when someone has gone into ventricular fibrillation and needs an electrical shock in order to save their life. Ventricular fibrillation is the most common type of arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat. It occurs when the heart's lower chambers beat chaotically and are not pumping blood around the body. Without a normal heartbeat, it can be difficult for oxygen to reach the brain and other organs, which puts someone at risk of falling unconscious and dying within minutes if they do not receive treatment.
AEDs work by analyzing the patient's heart rhythm using electrodes attached to the victim's bare chest with adhesive pads. The machine then analyzes this electrical activity and attempts to determine if there is a dangerously abnormal heart rhythm present. If so, it will deliver a shock to try to restore normal heart rhythm.
Who Needs To Use An AED?
AEDs are often found in public places where there are a lot of people:
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Schools;
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Airports;
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Gyms; and
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Stadiums.
They're also found in corporate offices, business districts and other workplaces. Essentially, they should be placed anywhere that people gather together and there is a possibility of sudden cardiac arrest due to heart disease or trauma. They are also used in ambulances, police cars and fire trucks to respond quickly to medical emergencies. In addition, many businesses like restaurants, stores and offices are installing AEDs at their workplaces for employees' safety and security.
An AED can be used by almost anyone - including those who don't have first aid training! By administering a shock from an AED, it can help restart the person's heart rhythm, allowing for extra time until medical personnel can arrive on the scene.
Why Do I Need An AED At My Workplace, Institution Or Organization?
Imagine being in a public place and someone collapses due to sudden cardiac arrest. You stand there, helpless, waiting for an ambulance. First responders are trained to respond and provide care in these situations, but it's not realistic to expect them to be everywhere at once. Which is why every public place—from schools to airports—should have an automated external defibrillator on-site.
An AED can save lives if used correctly and quickly after someone suffers a cardiac arrest. Every minute without CPR and defibrillation reduces survival rates by 10%. Anywhere there are people gathered can benefit from having an AED on hand.
Where Should I Install My AED?
Where you install your automated external defibrillator is an important decision. You should select a location that will allow the device to be used by anyone who needs it, and that has easy access for first responders. If you are installing your AED in a school or at work, make sure all staff members know where it is located, and how to use it.
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Whether you're a single business looking to purchase your first AED or you're running a school, church, or corporate agency with multiple locations, there's probably an AED Advantage solution ready-made just for you. It all comes down to finding your most convenient route to a high-quality, dependable AED with exceptional support behind it. With the large variety of AED Advantage products available, there's no reason why anyone in the market for an AED shouldn't find what they need. Contact us today to learn more!
