All you need to know about automated external defibrillators
When it comes to rescuing a person from sudden heart arrest, defibrillators are the most helpful diagnostic instruments. Different types of defibrillators are offered for various applications.
AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators), ICDs (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators), and WCDs (Wearable Cardioverter Defibrillators) are among the several varieties (WCD). AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) are one of the most useful defibrillators that may be kept at home. There's a lot to learn about AED, which we'll go over in detail later.
When is it necessary to use an AED?
AEDs can be used to resuscitate someone who has had a sudden cardiac arrest. It generally happens when the heart's electrical activity is disrupted. This results in ventricular tachycardia, a dangerously rapid heartbeat, or ventricular fibrillation, a fast and erratic pulse.
If you have one of these abnormal cardiac rhythms, it means your heart isn't pumping properly and, in the worst-case situation, it's stopping.
When this happens, your brain and other important organs are deprived of the blood and oxygen they require. You might possibly die if you do not receive care within minutes.
The sooner your heart's regular rhythm is restored, the better the chances are that your brain and other organs will not be permanently damaged.
A nearby AED is useful if you are experiencing ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia. It can be used by a bystander in a public area or a family member to shock your heart and return it to a normal beat, perhaps saving your life.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can maintain blood flowing to your heart and brain for a long period after a cardiac arrest. In most situations, however, defibrillation is the only way to restore the heart's normal rhythm.
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How to use an AED
Here's how to use an AED to save someone's life if you notice someone who has passed out and thinks they might require one:
1-Check for a pulse and to see if the person is breathing.
2-If you can't detect the person's pulse and they aren't breathing, call for help right away. If there are more than one person present, one should dial 911 while the other prepares the AED.
3-If you're alone, contact 911 first to be sure aid is on the way.
4-You can get step-by-step audio instructions from the automated external defibrillator. It explains how to check for respiration and pulse. It also explains how to place the electrode pads on the person's chest.
5-The AED automatically monitors the person's cardiac rhythm when the pads are placed in the designated location. It also influences whether or not a person need a shock. If he is, the system instructs the user to take a step back and press the appropriate button to deliver the shock. If the AED detects that a shock is not required, it will sound an alert.
6-Start CPR only after the shock has been delivered and if the patient still need it. You can do this as many times as necessary until the emergency crew arrives. The AED may also teach people how to perform CPR.
7-An instructional training film for the home AED teaches how to operate and maintain the equipment. If you get an AED, everyone in your family should watch the video and review it on a regular basis.
8-AEDs are carried by police and ambulance workers, and they are readily available in many public areas, including:
*Sports arenas.
*Malls
*Office buildings
*Gyms
*Airplanes
However, because the majority of cardiac arrests occur at home, having a home AED is a good idea. It can help resuscitate a person suffering from ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia in a matter of minutes. You should store AEDs in your house where they can be quickly accessed in an emergency.
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Determine if AED is required for your home
AED should be kept in the homes of those who are at high risk of cardiac arrest. It gives them peace of mind and, in some cases, saves their lives. When deciding whether or not to purchase an automated external defibrillator, keep the following points in mind:
Sudden cardiac death risk
Assume you're at a high risk of abrupt cardiac death as a result of a certain heart rhythm issue. Instead of an AED, your doctor would most likely prescribe an implanted cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). The ICD is a device that is placed in your chest and attached to your heart through a cable that may administer a shock if necessary.
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Your living arrangements
When you suffer a cardiac arrest, you must have someone with you who knows how to use an AED. Also, if you live alone or if the person you reside with is unable to use an AED, a home AED may not be necessary.
Your costs
AEDs for home use might be costly. In addition, they are rarely counted when it comes to insurance.
Tips for Using and Maintaining Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs)
*Purchase an AED that has been authorised by the UK Food and Drug Administration.
*Ensure that your AED is registered with the manufacturer.
You will get safety alerts and recall information in this manner. You should also visit the manufacturer's website on a regular basis to remain up to speed on the latest information regarding your equipment.
*Learn what you need to know.
Consider taking a community education class with anybody who might need to use your home AED. You'll also be able to help someone who is having a cardiac arrest in a public area with an AED nearby.
People who may be required to use an AED should be aware of what to do if the AED indicates that a person does not require a shock but remains unresponsive.
*Keep your AED device in a convenient location.
Ensure that your family, friends, and guests are aware of where you store the AED, and that it is conveniently accessible.
*Keep the AED in good working order.
New batteries should be installed as needed, usually every four years. You must also replace the electrode pads on a regular basis. It's a good idea to have extra pads on hand.
*Heed alarms.
If your AED begins to beep or the light flashes, you should contact the device's manufacturer right once.
*Purchase the appropriate AED for your needs.
Some AEDs are only suitable for use by emergency personnel or for placement in public locations and should not be used at home. Make sure your AED is suitable for usage at home.
Conclusion
AEDs are life-saving devices that may be used to diagnose and save a person's life. However, before purchasing one, see your doctor and conduct the necessary research. Also, remember to acquire all of the fundamental AED skills, including as CPR.