Updated on 31/07/2024
An Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) can save lives. Every year, thousands of people are affected by sudden cardiac arrest, whether at home, at work, in public places or while playing sport. Survival rates following cardiac arrest are significantly improved with a fast and effective response, which is where an AED plays a vital role.
What is an AED?
AED stands for Automatic External Defibrillator. This portable device administers electroshocks to restart the heartbeat of a person suffering a cardiac arrest. The electroshock/s restore normal heart rhythm.
AED devices can automatically distinguish between cardiac arrhythmias that require a defibrillator shock, and those that do not.
Automatic start-up, voice prompts and extensive automation of controls, have made defibrillators so easy to use that they can be safely operated by anyone. In addition, the device itself can distinguish between cardiac arrhythmias that require a defibrillator shock and rhythms that do not.
Why install an AED device?
Heart failure is one of the main causes of death in Belgium. Every year, more than 10,000 people experience cardiac arrest away from any hospital, for example in the street, at work or at home. Without intervention, only 10% of victims (Sourced from the Belgian Cardiology League) survive a heart failure.
The main reason for this low survival figure is that the defibrillation shock often comes too late. In fact, until the arrival of the AED, defibrillators were only available to ambulance personnel and doctors, who generally could not attend to the victim until ten or so minutes after the cardiac arrest had occurred.
The chance of survival decreases by 10% every minute. Twelve minutes after the circulatory arrest, the survival rate is just 9%. Research has shown that defibrillation by bystanders gives the victim a 50% chance of survival. When defibrillation, in combination with CPR, is performed within 6 minutes, the chance of survival increases as high as 70%.
Who can operate an AED?
Since 2007 (K.B.), anyone can use an AED when required. This is why you increasingly see these devices in places such as industrial sites, airports, shopping centres, sports clubs, catering establishments and public buildings.
Tips for choosing an AED device
There are several factors to consider when choosing an AED device. Below is an overview of the key aspects that can help you make the right choice.
- Type of AED: A fully automatic AED automatically delivers the shock as soon as it detects a shockable rhythm. With a semi-automatic AED, the user must press a button to deliver the shock after the device has analysed that a shock is required.
- Accessories: All our AEDs are supplied with an intervention kit as standard. After using an AED, a new intervention kit is required, which can be purchased separately. For easy access to the AED, a wall-mounted cabinet is recommended. To avoid theft of the AED, a wall-mounted cabinet with alarm is recommended. Vandeputte only supplies alarmed wall-mounted cabinets, for both indoor use and outdoor use.
- Escalating energy level: This delivers stronger shocks to the patient during defibrillation if required. The AED automatically increases the energy level of the shocks without any user intervention, allowing the intensity to be adjusted as defibrillation progresses.
- Compact devices: A compact device is useful where space is limited, or when the device needs to be moved frequently. However, these devices are often less convenient to use.
- Data Export: This information can be very useful to healthcare providers during the victim’s follow-up.
- Change of Language: Are multiple languages spoken in your company's work environment? If you have different nationalities working on the shop floor, then choose a device with easy language selection, such as the Primedic HeartSave HSY.
- Batteries: Lithium batteries are a little more expensive, but have a longer service life. If you are unable to test or change the batteries on a regular basis, always chose a device powered by lithium batteries. They will last an average of 5 years.
- Maintenance: Store the AED at an appropriate temperature according to the Instructions for Use, so not in direct sunlight or in freezing temperatures. The electrodes should be replaced every 5 years, or after each use. The batteries in our AEDs last 5 years.
This is how to save a life in 5 steps
Want to know how to resuscitate correctly? Visit the Belgian Cardiology League website and learn how to save a life in 5 steps.