FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What does AED stand for? AED stands for Automated External Defibrillator.
What is an AED? An AED is a device that delivers an electric shock through the chest wall to the heart, when the heart has stopped because of a heart atack. It is a small, portable, computerised device that uses simple voice prompts or text messages to guide the user easily through the process.
How does an AED work? A microprocessor inside the AED analyses the heart rhythm through adhesive electrodes placed on the person’s chest. Te AED advises the user whether a shock is needed. Te electric current is delivered through the chest wall from the adhesive electrode pads. An AED will only advise a shock for a rhythm called ventricular fibrillation – this rhythm happens as a result of the electrical impulses in the heart becoming chaotic. Because of this the heart cannot pump blood. An electrical shock is the only treatment for ventricular fibrillation.
Why are AEDs important? If an AED is used within 30 seconds
of collapse, it can successfully restore a pulse in up to 97% of heart atack patients. By having a defibrillator
seconds away, you do not have to wait for the emergency medical services to arrive. For each minute that passes without defibrillation, the chance of survival decreases by 10%.
Who would use an AED? Anyone who has been properly trained can operate an AED. By having an AED on your premises, you and your staff can be trained in CPR and how to use an AED, thereby saving lives!
Will an AED always deliver a shock to someone having a heart atack? An AED will only shock a heart in ventricular fibrillation – this rhythm responds to electric shock. If a shock is not required, then the person may need medication or breathing support instead. AEDs are also less successful when the person has collapsed and stopped breathing for longer than a few minutes, especially if no CPR was provided.
Is an AED safe to use? An AED is safe to use by anyone who has been trained to operate it. AEDs are designed with multiple safeguards and warnings before any shock is delivered. However, there are potential dangers when using an AED, and that is why training is essential.
Can an AED make a mistake? An AED will almost never shock any other rhythm except ventricular fibrillation. Te level of accuracy is greater than that of most emergency professionals.
For more information about the different models that are available, call Paulo on 079-687-2490 or 011-918-5111. Alternatively, email
I.N.E.S@telkomsa.net or I.N.E.S@
live.co.za
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