Automated external defibrillators (AED) are part of the essential medical tools used by rescuers in the event of a person experiencing sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) or related conditions.
Using AEDs within the first minute following SCA can effectively improve the victim’s chance of survival by 90%. Researches have shown, by comparison, the chances are reduced consecutively to 50 % after 5 minutes, eventually dropping to 10% passed the tenth minutes’ mark [1].
Defibrillators are operated by transferring electric shock to the patients to restore their regular heart functions. They can be used by a medical professional and untrained individual, in both cases, their utilization during SCA situations have been proven to give the best chance to save a person’s life.
Fully automated and Semi-automated AED
AED devices have two main versions available: fully and semi-automated AED. Both being almost identical as for the core features, they differ from one another based on their activation method.
As for the fully automated AED, once placed the pads, the machine operates automatically scanning for the affected person’s heart in search of anomalies, and if any is present, deliver the electric shock. This allows for less stress caused to the rescuers, specially designed for untrained operators.
On the other hand, semi-automatic devices, after having analyzed the patient heart rhythm, will advise the user himself to push the activation button when required. In this way, the administrator has control over the shock delivery, which can be important on some occasions.
How to Apply AED Pads
When it comes to applying the AED pads, for children under 8 years old, after removing the clothes, the pads must be placed vertically, one on the center of the chest (located approximately above the heart) and the other on the opposite side on the back.
As for teenagers or adults, apply one of the pads on the right-side bare chest, while the second pad needs to be located on the left side on the lower ribcage. Keep in mind, if not pre-connected to connect the pads to the device. In most cases, on the backside of the pads, you may find a picture with visual instruction on how to apply pads.
Where to Employ AEDs
Fortunately, the general public and local governments have understood the great importance of AEDs. Nowadays, in many countries, AEDs can be found mounted on walls in a government building, hospitals, airports, schools, offices, shopping malls, and communities.
Through the deployment of the AED wall bracket or cabinet, an AED can be easily spotted and accessible to anyone in need in the public areas. Usually positioned on a 5 feet height from the ground, they can be used by an adult while preventing to be reached by toddlers.
In addition, wall units are also designed to protect the AED, assuring its optimal performance over emergencies. Usually, by legislation, in public spaces and facilities, their presence is indicated by signs and labels in order to increase people’s awareness.
Mindray’s Solution
If you are interested in purchasing an AED device for your home or your facilities, you are strongly suggested to rely on professionals’ channels. Mindray, with its 29 years of experience in medical device design and manufacturing, is one of the leading companies in the healthcare industry worldwide. Devoted to making better healthcare more accessible, Mindray is a reliable choice for a wide spectrum of medical devices and solutions.
References:
[1] Part 4: The Automated External Defibrillator. (2018). American Heart Association. Available at: https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/circ.102.suppl_1.I-60 (Accessed: 6 April 2020)
