Heart Defibrillator

Heart defibrillator - so you might be asking, how does it work?

An automated external defibrillator (AED) consists of a small computer, electronic circuitry and electrodes. The electrodes are placed on the victim's chest to collect information about the rhythm of the heart. The AED's microprocessor helps to interpret the heart's rhythm.




What will a heart defibrillator accomplish?

The automated electronic defibrillator shocks and stuns the heart momentarily. This will stop all rhythm of the heart. The heart now has a chance to restart itself and resume beating at a normal pace.

A heart defibrillator should not be used in the following cases:

• If the victim has a normal pulse.
  
  
• If there is standing water anywhere near the victim or AED operator.
  
  
• If other people or yourself are
  touching the victim.

What are the risks of using an AED?

• Skin burns from the electrodes
  
  
• Accidental shock to the AED operator
  
  
• Abnormal heart rhythms
  
  
• Blood clots

Who can operate AED's?

With the new type of AED's, the victim's condition is automatically analyzed and if necessary an electric shock will be delivered to reverse sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). With proper training, nearly anyone can use these devices. AED's are very simple to operate.



What training is required to use an AED?

All that is required in most cases is a simple course in CPR and AED training. Most training courses can be completed in less than a few hours. Check with your state government to see what requirements are necessary.

What are the best locations to place AED's?

In public places:

• Government buildings
  
  
• Theaters
  
  
• Sports stadiums
  
  
• Bus and train stations
  
  
• Airports
  
  
• Shopping Malls
  
  
• Places of worship
  
  
• Recreation areas, parks and golf courses
  
  
• Community centers

Area's within a facility to place AED's:

• Near a fire extinguisher
  
  
• Reception or common area
  
  
• Corporate jet
  
  
• Security office
  
  
• Locations throughout the manufacturing plant

Area's within a school facility:

• Near a fire extinguisher
  
  
• Health office
  
  
• Cafeterias, gymnasiums and auditoriums
  
  
• Reception or common areas
  
  
• Athletics office
  
  
• Security office

AED's should be placed where they are easily accessible and visible.

Here are the steps you would take if you were using an AED:

• Turn on the AED.
  
  
• Following the voice directions.
  
  
• Apply the adhesive defibrillator pads on the victim's bare chest.
  
  
• If the device recommends a shock, press the shock button.
  
  
• The AED's microprocessor will automatically determine if the victim needs a defibrillating shock.

Click here for an AED Demonstration- then press Try It






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