Posted by Dr Michelle Wright
Welcome to Health Matters. Dr Michelle Wright with you as usual – the resident doctor here on WRS and Director of first aid training and health education company HealthFirst.
Today, talking about a device that has the power to save lives in just moments – an automated external defibrillator (or AED for short) – the importance of using one quickly, and how you can locate an AED in an emergency.
What is an AED?
As a reminder, an AED is a portable device that can deliver an electric shock to the heart of a person in cardiac arrest – a person who is unconscious, not breathing and whose heart has stopped beating.
When someone suffers a cardiac arrest, their heart stops pumping blood effectively, and oxygen stops flowing to their brain. The faster a defibrillator is used, the better the chances of restoring a normal heart rhythm and preventing brain damage.
How can you use an AED?
The good news is that modern defibrillators are designed for anyone to use, not just medical professionals.
They come with clear voice prompts and instructions that guide you through every step, from attaching the pads to the person’s chest to delivering the shock if needed, which means you can take action, even if you’ve never used one before.
Some people worry about hurting someone with a defibrillator. But the fact is that you can’t deliver a shock unless the device detects it’s needed. In that respect, it’s completely safe. But of course, undertaking some training can allow you to practice and grow your confidence.
Studies show that for every minute defibrillation is delayed, the chances of survival decrease by about 10 percent, so this is why a fast response time is vital.
Where and how can you locate an AED?
Many defibrillators are now located in public spaces – for example train stations, shopping centres, public buildings, airports. But the first step is knowing they’re there.
That’s why tools like the Defikarte.ch and Staying Alive Apps are so important. They help you locate the nearest defibrillator in seconds, ensuring you can act fast when it matters most.
So, why not make one of your new year’s resolutions to find out where the nearest defibrillator is in your workplace, school, or community.
Download Apps like Defikarte.ch or Staying Alive to help you locate them in public spaces. I’ll make sure the links for these go onto the WRS website.
And most importantly, don’t be afraid to act. Acting fast and using a defibrillator can double or even triple someone’s chances of survival after a cardiac arrest.
That’s the kind of power you potentially hold in your hands!
