FAQ
An AED is an Automated External Defibrillator. It is a portable, simple to use, computerised device. When someone suffers a sudden cardiac arrest it delivers a shock to the heart to allow it to resume its normal rhythm.
A cardiac arrest is a sudden loss of heart function which causes a person to collapse. When this happens the person will not respond and will not be breathing normally (either gasping or not breathing at all). This is caused because something has gone wrong with the heart’s electrical system, and without immediate CPR and defibrillation the person will not survive. vitae dicta sunt explicabo.
An AED checks the heart’s rhythm and it automatically recognises if there is a life threatening rhythm. Once detected the AED delivers a shock to stun the heart returning it to its normal rhythm.
Accessibility and visibility are key to choosing a location for your AED. Whether you are placing your AED in a building such as in a workplace, or outside in your community, it should be located in a central location and somewhere within the limits of operation as set by the manufacturer.
It is important that you regularly check your AED to ensure it works and the battery and pads are within date.
You may also consider signage so that bystanders are aware of its location. If you are placing your AED outside, make sure it is kept in an appropriate storage cabinet as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
As all AEDs have different specifications make sure the cabinet you choose provides appropriate protection for the AED as per the manufacturer’s specifications. When buying a storage cabinet make sure it is fit for purpose for the intended location, i.e. indoors or outdoors. While security may be an issue, please make sure that it does not hinder access to the AED in an emergency.
here an AED is located inside a building it is important that all responders use it in the same way. Therefore, you should have clear, written guidelines as to how the emergency response system will work. This helps to ensure that responders are clear as to their responsibilities and how they are expected to respond to an incident.
Your AED should be checked regularly to ensure it is in working order and rescue ready. You may wish to write your own AED checklist similar to this sample list developed by the Pre Hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC). View the PHECC AED checklist.
