Automatic External Defibrillators Save Lives!
The AED is a small, compact version of the defibrillators used by doctors and nurses at hospitals. AEDs are designed for layperson use. In a human voice, it instructs the operator, step by step, in the proper actions to take to operate the unit. Only at the appropriate time, it can deliver a shock to the heart to establish proper function. Studies have proven that AEDs save lives. Yet, many establishments, fearing liability suits, have chosen not to acquire AEDs. In actuality, there has not been one successful court case against AED use. There have, however, been successful court cases against not having an AED in a medical emergency.
In fact, in all 50 states, AEDs are now covered by good Samaritan laws - meaning companies and individuals are not liable if they use an AED in a reasonable and prudent manner.
Assured Protection will work with you to obtain a device as well as provide your staff with the required training to use it. Below are some frequently asked questions:
What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?
Sudden Cardiac Arrest or (SCA) is when the heart falls out of rhythm and no longer pumps blood through the body. It affects approximately 400,000 people a year in the United States. It can happen to anybody, any age, any time, anywhere. Presently the national survival rate is between 5 and 10%. The key to surviving SCA is minimizing the delay to defibrillation. The only proven method of treatment for SCA is a defibrillation shock administered within 4-6 minutes following onset. The likelihood of survival decreases by 10% for every minute delay.
Why can't I just call 911?
Statistics show that in traffic-clogged New York City, the average time from dispatch to curbside arrival of emergency vehicles is 7.6 minutes. This is wasted time when compared to the alternative of having an AED on-site. Other factors include delays in accessing high-rise buildings and locating the patient in large or crowded facilities. All of these factors combine to make it improbable that a responding EMS unit will reach the patient in time to administer a successful defibrillation shock to a SCA patient.
What's involved in obtaining an AED for my establishment?
Assured Protection will consult with you on selecting the appropriate AED to meet your needs as well as its optimal placement and the available payment options. Our training experts will conduct the necessary classroom session on-site, at your place of business. This will permit the use of the device in situations when Assured Protection's staff is not on premise. The training course usually runs about six hours.