The lower current also reduces the chances of incidental injuries, such as burns at the electrode site. Due the lower current requirements, defibrillators were significantly reduced in size, which enabled the development of the AED. The smaller size and lower cost meant that defibrillators could be deployed in many areas — like schools, airports, shopping centers, and other areas with high volume of foot traffic.
AEDs can be safely and effectively used by anyone with little or no training, as the AED will deliver voice prompts directing the user through all the steps. If you have never practiced using an AED, rest assured that when the time comes, it will be an easy process to follow.
However, should you want to be assured that you can use one quickly and effectively, visit our website at cprseattle. If you are interested in obtaining one of these life-saving devices for your workplace or other location, our AED sales division is ready to assist you. Enjoy our blog? What exactly does an AED do to the heart?
What is an AED waveform? What kinds of rhythms can an AED correct? So why do the electrode pads go where they do? How powerful does an AED need to be to work? Can I shock someone by mistake? Still, however, many people have never heard of an AED and have no knowledge of what they are, what they do, or when they are used. For those who do not know about these lifesaving devices, it is time learn.
One day maybe you will use one to save a life. The more you know about AEDs and how they work, the more likely you will be to step in confidently and rescue somebody who is experiencing sudden cardiac arrest SCA. This is important stuff. When this happens, blood no longer flows to the brain and the rest of the body, and the victim collapses in an unconscious state. When blood flow ceases, tissue damage. The mechanisms behind SCA vary, but they all stem from disruptions in cardiac rhythm.
Disruptions in this behavior, resulting in beats that are irregular, too fast, or too slow, are called arrhythmia. Left unchecked, arrhythmia leads to ventricular fibrillation VF , where the heart muscles quiver or flutter instead of contracting in a coordinated manner. This is where SCA generally begins. It may also manifest in an electrical rhythm that appears normal but fails to produce a pulse, called pulseless electrical activity or electromechanical dissociation.
In severe cases, the heart and electrical rhythm stop entirely, which is called asystole or cardiac flatline. Coronary artery disease, and other structural heart disorders, are responsible for most cases of SCA. Sometimes these conditions are inherited. Regardless, they affect the electrical behavior in the cardiac muscles and increase the risk of arrhythmia.
SCA can also be induced by injury, severe bleeding, poisoning, electrocution, or drowning. Often, there are no warning signs or symptoms before SCA. Sometimes, however, victims experience chest pains, shortness of breath, dizziness, vomiting and blackouts. During cardiac arrest, the patient exhibits a lack of regular pulse, leading to loss of breathing and consciousness.
Heart attacks are often assumed to be synonymous with cardiac arrest; however, a heart attack formally, myocardial infarction entails damage to cardiac muscle because of decreased or halted blood flow to a part of the heart.
A defibrillator is a device intended to treat ventricular fibrillation. A pair of electrodes, along with electrically conductive gel, facilitate this current via a difference in potential or voltage ; the gel reduces the natural resistivity of body tissues and prevents electrical burns.
Traditional defibrillators electrodes come in the form of metal paddles with insulated handles, while some modern defibrillators instead use adhesive pads with conductive gel already applied.
Several types of defibrillators exist, varying in application. Police and ambulance crews carry AEDs , and they're commonly available in many public places, including malls, office buildings, sports arenas, gyms and airplanes. However, many cardiac arrests occur at home, so having a home AED can save precious minutes in reviving a person with ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia.
Proponents of home AEDs say putting them where they're needed most will save many lives. But critics argue there's no reliable evidence that home defibrillators save more lives. For some people who have a high risk of cardiac arrest, having an AED can provide peace of mind and might help save their lives. Here are some things to keep in mind as you consider whether to buy an automated external defibrillator:. If you get an AED for your home, make sure that family, friends and visitors know where it is and how to use it.
And you need to maintain it properly. Here are some tips for buying and maintaining your home AED :. AEDs offer a way to save a life. Before buying one, talk to your doctor and do research. And don't forget to learn the basics, such as CPR. There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Sign up for free, and stay up-to-date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID, plus expert advice on managing your health.
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