Everything
you wanted to know about Defibrillators: Part 1
Defibrillators
are also referred to as Automated External defibrillators
(AED). These portable medical devices can generate an instant electrical shocks
to the heart when its rhythm becomes perilously irregular or fast. Once the shock is delivered , the heart
rate and rhythm can be immediately restored back to normal. Time is of essence
because any delay in administering the shock can lead to permanent damage to
the heart, and result in death. When the heart rhythm is not restored within
4-6 minutes, the prognosis is poor.
The sooner the
heart rhythm is restored, the better are the chances of survival without any
permanent organ damage. Each minute is critical and the chances of survival dim
with each passing minute.
Defibrillators can be used with in the home, business
setting or in a hospital setting. Today defibrillators are carried by police,
ambulance crews, and are also available on planes, sport arenas, shopping
malls, casino and hotels.
Automatic external
defibrillators have
been approved by the FDA. The only automatic defibrillator available without a
prescription for home use is the Phillips Heart
Start Home defibrillator. The HeartStart defibrillator can be
used on children as young as 8 years in age.
There are many
types of AED on the market.
The Cardiac Science device delivers life saving defibrillation
therapy without having to push any buttons. The Welch Allyn and HeartStart
Onsite Defibrillators are fully automatic and can even guide you through the
CPR process. The automatic defibrillators also have a voice program which
explains what needs to be done during a cardiac arrest.
Once the pads
have been applied, the AED automatically analyses the individual's heart rhythm
and determines if a shock is required. If this is so, the machine will either
sound an alarm or may announce the need. The user must stand back and press a
button to deliver the charge. The process can be repeated 2-3 times until the
911 emergency crew comes over.
All AEDs are simple to use with minimal training. The current
defibrillators will even make a determination as to whether a shock should be
administered. The defibrillators come with a manual and instructions on how to
use them. Accessories to the defibrillators include pads, batteries, paddles
and battery chargers and these come with the AED.
