Have you ever witnessed a TV drama series on medicine? In that case, you’ve likely seen someone brought back to life by a medical professional who shouts “Clear” before shocking the person’s chest with electricity to get their heart pumping again. A defibrillator is a device being utilised, and its applications are not just restricted to medical facilities. AED defibrillators are devices you can use at home, in schools and in many other public locations. These little, transportable gadgets are sold over the counter. Individuals who face the possibility of cardiac arrest suddenly due to severe heart disease may want to consider getting an AED.
One can be revived from a sudden cardiac arrest using an AED. It usually happens when there is an interruption in the electrical activity of the heart, which results in a heartbeat that is either dangerously fast or fast and irregular. Both abnormal heart rhythms prevent the heart from circulating blood efficiently and may even lead to cardiac arrest. When this occurs, the brain and other crucial organs do not receive the necessary blood and oxygen. To avoid death, this needs to be treated right away. The likelihood that the organs won’t sustain long-term harm increases with the speed with which the heart rhythm is restored.
How Is An AED Used?
A bystander in a public setting or a family member can use an AED to shock a person experiencing ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation back into a normal cardiac rhythm. One can save a life by using an AED. After a cardiac arrest, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can temporarily restore blood flow to the heart and brain. However, frequently only defibrillation can bring the heart’s rhythm back. Together, these therapies can raise the likelihood of survival. If a person has collapsed and may require an AED:
- Make sure the person is inhaling and has a heartbeat before proceeding.
- Call for immediate assistance if you can’t feel the person’s pulse and they are not breathing. If other people are present, one can dial 911 while the second gets the AED ready. Make sure aid is on the way by calling 911 or rescue care if you’re alone.
- Activate the AED. You receive spoken instructions from the external defibrillator in a step-by-step fashion. It will explain how to place electrode patches on the subject’s bare chest and how to assess for respiration and pulse.
- Transmit the jolt. The AED automatically assesses the patient’s heart rhythm while the plates are in place and decides whether a shock is required. The device instructs the user to step aside and press a button to give the shock if it is. When a shock is unnecessary, the AED is designed not to administer one.
- Begin CPR. If resuscitation is still required after the jolt is given, do it now. The defibrillator will also instruct people on CPR. Repeat the procedure as necessary up until the arrival of emergency personnel.
The instructions for using and maintaining the home AED are present with the device. Everyone in a house with an AED should read the manual and review it repeatedly.
Conclusion
AED defibrillators are carried by ambulance and police teams. Additionally, they are frequently accessible in various public locations, including malls, offices, sports stadiums, gyms, and airlines. But since many cardiac arrests occur at home, owning a home AED might help save valuable time while trying to revive someone experiencing ventricular fibrillation or tachycardia. According to advocates of home AEDs, they will save many lives if they are placed in high-need areas. However, detractors claim there is no solid proof that home AEDs save more lives.
