Understanding the Basics: What Are AEDs and How Do They Work?
You see them in your workplace, gym, at sporting events, and many other places. Yet, you may hardly notice them. Small cabinets labeled "A-E-D" hang on walls, containing an odd piece of equipment inside. There may even be a sign above it to show people where it is. If you have never been trained to use one, your knowledge might come from watching shows like Chicago Hope. However, if you have been properly trained, you recognize it as a means to potentially save a life!
Automated External Defibrillators are the number one piece of equipment to have when dealing with cardiac arrest. With proper training, you will see that it can greatly increase the chances of survival. This small machine can analyze a cardiac patient's heart rhythms in seconds, and if a life-threatening arrhythmia is detected, it can deliver a shock to restore a natural rhythm. The shock can be quite strong, so you absolutely do not want to be touching the person when it fires. Coupled with high-quality CPR, an AED gives a cardiac arrest victim better chances of survival until EMS can arrive.
These units can be a bit on the expensive side, but if you ever need to use it and it saves a loved one's life, it's worth it. I compare it to a fire extinguisher: it's better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. Companies like Avive make it affordable for the average family to own an AED by offering a program that allows you to make annual installments. Their AED has been a game changer in the world of first response. These units are self-reporting and will let you know the status of the batteries and pads at regular intervals. The unit even records an EKG while it's attached to the cardiac arrest victim, which can be relayed to the hospital. This allows a doctor to review it before the person arrives at the emergency room. I actually carry one of these units. It's so compact that it can be placed inside a backpack for a hiking or camping trip. You can even throw it in your gym bag!
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