An automated external defibrillator – AED for short – is a life-saving device for victims of sudden cardiac arrest. The presence of an AED allows any untrained user to rapidly respond to a life-threatening situation in any sort of environment.
So, what places should provide AEDs?
Businesses like schools, care homes and medical facilities may be the first places that come to mind. However, there’s no logic in thinking that one type of business is more worthy of an AED than another, because sudden cardiac arrest can happen randomly to anyone at any time – that’s why it’s “sudden”!
This emergency situation can happen anywhere, whether that’s in the street, in a shop, on a plane or in the gym. What would you do if you’re trimming a client’s hair in your salon and they suddenly collapse? Or what if you’re tattooing a customer in your studio and they become unresponsive? How would you cope if a diner dropped to the floor when ordering food in your restaurant?
You’d head straight for your AED – we hope.
If you don’t have an AED, you may not be able to help until an ambulance arrives. This increases the time taken to help the sudden cardiac arrest victim, minimising their chance of survival.
Every business should have a first aid kit, right?
You wouldn’t just expect hospitals to have first aid supplies.
Most businesses have some form of first aid provisions to deal with accidents – from plasters and bandages to antiseptic cream and burn dressings.
Well, think of AEDs in the same light. You never know when or where you’re going to need first aid, and the same applies for defibrillation.
Sudden cardiac arrest is a totally unpredictable occurrence that requires treatment within minutes – being prepared for it saves lives.
The more businesses that provide an AED, the more time can be saved in dealing with sudden cardiac arrest, and the greater likelihood of survival.
Where should AEDs be kept?
Accessibility is key. It’s important to keep AEDs in plain sight so that anyone who needs to use it can find it quickly.
Don’t worry if you don’t have any indoor facilities. AEDs can be safely mounted in specially-designed security boxes. AED cabinets with alarms deter from theft and damage to ensure that the device is only ever used in emergencies.
Secure cabinets are great for open areas that may not always be manned but still have high numbers of people around, including parks and public transport stations.
Ultimately, if it’s a populated area then there should be always be an AED nearby and accessible. So prepare your business, save a life, get an AED.
