Defibrillators
When someone suffers a cardiac arrest, defibrillation needs to be prompt. For every minute that passes the chances of survival decrease by 10-14%. Which mean that if treatment is not given within 10 minutes, the chance of survival is virtually zero. During the last 40 years research has investigated the links between cardiac arrest and effective defibrillation and a large body of evidence has been collected which shows that applying a controlled shock within five minutes of collapse provides the best possible chances of survival.
Today defibrillators, also known as Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) provide that controlled shock safely and effectively even when used by non trained people. This means that they can be placed in areas of greatest need where they can be most effective and be used within a few minutes.
The best locations are areas where there is a high incidence of cardiac arrest and where it is difficult for an ambulance to get to quickly. For example rural areas, communities served by poor road networks, areas blighted by traffic congestion even factories, offices, retail parks and trading estates or where large crowds gather. These are all are places where defibrillators should be placed.
Vital4Life / Doddmed with its range of defibrillators has the AED for your needs. They are compact lightweight, reliable and very easy to use
Some common questions answered
What is a defibrillator and how does it help? A defibrillator / AED is a life-saving machine that gives the heart an electric shock in some cases of cardiac arrest. This is called ‘defibrillation' and can save lives. Cardiac arrest is when the heart stops pumping blood around the body.
How do I use one properly? It’s extremely simple to use an AED. The rescuer turns the machine on. The unit will then give ‘voice prompts’, telling the rescuer what to do. Once the rescuer has put the pads in position on the person’s chest and connected them to the device, the pads detect the electrical activity in the heart and will be able to tell if a shock is needed. You just follow the instructions and press the shock button when advised. Anyone can use an AED, however it is desirable that people receive training first. It is also beneficial for people to be trained in CPR, which buys time before defibrillation
Should a defibrillator be kept locked away so it doesn't get damaged or stolen? In order that AEDs are available when needed it is best to have them in accessible locations it is not recommended for them to be placed in locked or code-restricted cabinets.We have a range of cabinets available for safe storage and easy unit identification
Should GP surgeries to be equipped with defibrillators?
Yes - research shows that GP surgeries equipped with defibrillators can improve survival by up to 60 per cent if the patient is treated immediately or soon after entering cardiac arrest. They are also small and light so can be used in areas around the surgery or on home visits.
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Resuscitation Council (UK) Guidelines
