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 A report published in the Annals of Internal Medicine suggests that the life saving benefits of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) could be vastly increased if such devices
were to become commonplace in the US workplace. The researchers from the
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas state that of the
cardiac arrests that do not occur in the hospital, roughly three-fourths occur
in patients' homes or place of work. Availability of AEDs in the home or office
would shorten the length of time between the onset of cardiac arrest and life
saving delivery of the electronic shock to restore heart function. This would
save lives.
Less than 5 per cent of the quarter million Americans that have a cardiac arrest
outside of a hospital will survive. AEDs are proven to save lives and at a cost
that is comparable to other life saving therapies. For this reason, many have
been installed in public places where cardiac arrest may occur, such as airports
and casinos. Technological advances in AEDs have made the devices easier for the
layperson to use, often the nearest rescuer during a cardiac arrest.
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An AED is a portable, 4lb, medical device that is used in cases of cardiac arrest, or sudden cardiac death. AEDs contain a computer chip that can monitor electrical activity of the heart and determine if an electrical shock to the heart is required. The AED contains a voice technology that provides instructions to the rescuer based on the electrical activity of the heart. If a shock is necessary, the AED tells the user which button to use and the user can then deliver the electric shock to the heart. To administer the potentially life saving shock, the AED user must first remove the patient's shirt to bare the chest, and place electronic sensors on the patient's chest.
According to OSHA, businesses have a legal obligation to maintain a safe and healthy workplace. This includes emergency response preparation. While there has not been significant litigation regarding
AEDs, there have been a few cases involving the failure to have or use an AED.
Each year, more than 350,000 Americans die from sudden cardiac arrest. The American Heart Association estimates that up to 100,000 deaths a year could be prevented if access to AEDs was broadened.
When one considers the low cost of an AED at $3000 to $4000, and the growing recognition of its effectiveness in treating
SCA, these types of emergency response devices are becoming the new standard of care in responding to cardiac emergencies. Increasingly, businesses may well run the risk being held liable for not implementing AED technology.
For further information concerning specific products and prices please contact us. We will select the correct AED for your company's need.
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