General Information about
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)
From the American Red Cross website
http://www.redcross.org/services/hss/courses/aed.html#where
What is an automated external
defibrillator (AED)?
An AED is a device about the size of a
laptop computer that analyzes the heart's rhythm for any abnormalities and, if
necessary, directs the rescuer to deliver an electrical shock to the victim.
This shock, called defibrillation, may help the heart to reestablish an
effective rhythm of its own.
How does an AED work?
An AED is easy to operate. It uses voice
prompts to instruct the rescuer. Once the machine is turned on, the rescuer will
be prompted to apply two electrodes provided with the AED to the victim's chest.
Once applied, the AED will begin to monitor the victim's heart rhythm. If a "shockable"
rhythm is detected, the machine will charge itself and instruct the rescuer to
stand clear of the victim and to press the shock button.
If an AED is so easy to use, why do
I need training?
Training is necessary in order to
understand the role of defibrillation in the broader context of the cardiac
chain of survival. Training in CPR and AED skills will enable the rescuer to use
all the steps in the cardiac chain of survival, thereby significantly increasing
the victim's chance of survival.
Who can use an AED?
In most cases, EMTs and first responders
(police and firefighters) are required to know how to use an AED as part of
their job responsibilities. Furthermore, all 50 states now have AED Good
Samaritan provisions that help protect laypersons. Contact your local or state
emergency medical services ("
How can I buy an AED?
A physician’s prescription is needed in
order to purchase most AEDs. This means that the medical director of a facility
or a physician used by such facility must prescribe and oversee the AED program
at any workplace or other facility that houses an AED. Some AEDs can be
purchased over the counter without a prescription.
How much does an AED cost?
The cost of an AED varies by manufacturer
and model. Currently, an average price for a single AED unit is about $2,300.
Recommendations and Questions for the
Several of Our Faith Community Nurses
Funding an
AED:
If funds are
not available through the local church or donations to cover the cost of an AED
for your church, it is advised that before applying anywhere for grant
assistance, you contact the local American Heart Association which may provide
AEDs for certain settings (http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=1200000).
Philips Medical does offer grants for the purchase of AEDs
(http://www.medical.philips.com/us/
). Additional supplies and the training modules may come with an AED
funded by such a grant. A physician may be needed to agree with your
request before sending in the application.
Medtronics (http://www.medtronic.com/)
may be another source for grants.
Important things to be thought out in churches with AEDs or considering a
purchase:
§
Who in
the church will receive the training initially? How will members be
trained/selected to be trained volunteers?
§
Who will
be the trainer? Local hospitals and chapters of the American Red Cross
may provide the training.
§
How will
people keep competent in the possible use of AED?
§
Where
will it be kept for 24/7 availability?
§
Who will
have the responsibility for maintaining a quick check on the battery with
some frequency?
§
Is there
a budget for replacement of used/outdated materials and battery?
§
Are
folks trained in CPR in the congregation?