AEDs Changed Sudden Cardiac Arrest Therapy Early defibrillation via the use ofautomated external defibrillators (AEDs)is replacing cardiopulmonary resuscitation in importance during the process of reversing "sudden cardiac arrest" (SCA).Today's emergency sudden cardiac arrest procedures start by calling 911, then immediately use an AED to defibrillate the victim to restore a normal heartbeat, then perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) until emergency medical services (EMS) arrive on scene.For many years, CPR was the only therapy used when someone's heart went into "fibrillation"… abnormal beating or quivering or worse even stopped.Now, many experts suggest using automated external defibrillators, first; then provide CPR.Operating an automatic model AED is much easier to perform than CPR. AEDs are more powerful tools than CPR chest compressions are for restoring the heart's normal rhythm.It takes time, strength or stamina to properly perform CPR and get the best results. CPR is difficult because if compressions are done too slowly or too shallow; the heart may not restart on its own. Increasingly CPR is used to maintain the heart beat after defibrillation.An easy to use "automatic operation" model AED works by opening the lid and following simple voice commands that instruct the operator.  The AED's software then analyzes the victim and determines whether to deliver a "biphasic" shock to the heart to restore its rhythm.Today, AED/CPR classes are the teaching standard of nationally accredited organizations (AHA, ARC, ASHI) for employees and students to learn and become certified in the correct methods and techniques of using anautomated external defibrillatorand giving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).Are all AEDs (automated external defibrillators) the same and howAre all AEDs (automated external defibrillators) the same and how do I decide which kind to select?Two types of defibrillator technologies exist…monophasic versus biphasic…each technology may also feature "escalating energy" (the ability to boost the energy or "joules" delivered) from 200 to 300 to 360 joules to restore normal heart rhythm…and finally; automatic versus semi-automatic operation.Monophasic AED's (delivers a shock in one direction) may not effectively shock and restore a normal heart rhythm when damaged heart muscle tissue is present.Biphasicautomated external defibrillators (AEDs)were invented to improve effectiveness by delivering a "two-way" (shock in one direction and return the shock in the opposite direction) to the heart muscle in case (very likely) the heart muscle is damaged by a sudden cardiac arrest.Damage tissue can compromise the effectiveness of a shock.Biphasic defibrillatorsalso consume less energy than monophasic defibrillators. Biphasic defibrillator technology was invented to replace the vast, aging inventory of monophasic defibrillators.Automatic operation AEDs are very easy to use. If you are operating this type  you simply press a button to open the lid and a voice directs the operator to first call 911; then to remove the victim's clothing and expose the victims bare chest; then place the electrodes (or pads) located inside of the lid exactly as shown in the diagram provided; shaving the chest prior to placement when hair is present so the electrodes make firm contact with the skin to assure the electrodes can shock effectively.The AED's voice will then tell the operator that the device is "analyzing the heart's rhythm" and not to touch the victim.The machine will decide if a shock is necessary and if so will deliver the shock and ask the operator to begin cardo-pulmonary resuscitation.Semi-automatic operation AEDs function the same way BUT require the operator to make the decision of when the shock is delivered. ...read more

Make the Commitment to Saving Lives Defibrillationis the only effective therapy for ventricular fibrillation. For each minute that passes without CPR and defibrillation, the chance of survival decreases7% to 10%. With a strongChain of Survivalin every workplace and community, more lives can be saved. In most cases of cardiac arrest, the critical link isEarly Defibrillation.Each year, more than 950,000 adult Americans die from cardiovascular disease, making it the No. 1 cause of death in the United States.At least ...read more

AED - Automated External Defibrillators "Sudden Cardiac Arrest" (SCA) is a leading cause of death and a significant public health crisis in the United States, killing 325,000 people each year. Most deaths from SCA occur with little or no warning.  SCA is not a heart attack.  At the onset of sudden cardiac arrest; the heart function ceases, -- abruptly and without warning – the victim has an abnormal heart rhythm called ventricular fibrillation -- the heart is no longer able to pump blood to the rest of the body.   95% of victims die. "Defibrillation" is the shock delivered by an AED and is the only therapy available for a Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) victim to live.  This electric shock should be delivered within the first 3-5 minutes of collapse.   When a cardiac arrest occurs, both defibrillation and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) are immediately required to restore normal heart pumping. AEDs (automated external defibrillators) and AED/CPR-trained rescuers can help save the lives of thousands of SCA victims . AEDs are as vital as fire extinguishers for businesses, schools, offices, stores, gyms, and other public spaces and AED Program Management Services helps them select the right AED/CPR-training program, the best AED brand and other vital program management services to make sure AED Programs are compliant with state and local laws and regulations. AEDs have been routinely used for over 50 years by first response professionals like Police, Fire and EMS. Automated External Defibrillators for Private Schools and College Athletes ...read more