What is an AED?
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| Well-trained use of an AED might save a life of someone having a Sudden Cardiac Arrest. Training is available through your local Red Cross Chapter. |
CONCORD - August 15, 2006 - You may have seen signs for an "AED" in the malls, schools and other public places. What is an AED? When is it needed? Why is it so important? How can you learn to use one?
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a device used in cases of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). About the size of a laptop, the AED analyzes the heart's rhythm for abnormalities and, if necessary, directs the rescuer to deliver an electrical shock to the victim. That shock, called defibrillation, may help the heart reestablish an effective rhythm.
Many people think that a Sudden Cardiac Arrest is the same as a heart attack Ð it's not! A heart attack occurs when the heart muscle lacks adequate blood flow because of blockage in the arteries to the heart. SCA happens when the heart is still beating but with an ineffective, erratic rhythm. SCA can occur for a variety of reasons, affecting anyone anywhere at any time. Even those leading a healthy lifestyle (eating good foods, exercising regularly, not smoking, etc.), may still have a malfunction of the heart rhythms without prior symptoms.
Why is rapid response with an AED so important? An erratic heartbeat may be corrected, but for every minute that passes after a SCA, the chance for survival drops by 7%-10%. The vision of the American Red Cross is that all Americans should be within 4 minutes of both an AED and someone trained to use it in the event of Sudden Cardiac Arrest.
When seconds count, could you use an AED to save a life?
Most AEDs today are created specifically for the first responder at the scene of a SCA. Therefore, they are designed to be easy to understand and use in an emergency when every second counts. Nevertheless, it is important to be trained in how and when to use them.
Your local chapter of the Red Cross has courses available on Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and AED. See our class listings or call us today to see how you or your company can set up AED training (1-800-464-6692 or 603-225-6697). The American Red Cross also facilitates the sale of AEDs.
Watch for AEDs throughout your community. Every day, someone like you might save a life using an automated external defibrillator. Be trained. Be ready to respond.
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