Planning for Sudden Cardiac Arrest

The Case for Widespread Outdoor AED Deployment in Your Community

Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is both a recurring health epidemic and a serial killer, claiming almost 400,000 American lives every year. It often strikes without any warning signs. And when it does, you need help.

Having an AED nearby and quick action by responders is crucial for survival. Unfortunately, there are tragic stories of unexpected SCA deaths from all over the country on a daily basis. But it’s not all bad news. There are also several uplifting SCA stories of survival, often a direct result of having access to AEDs, when and where they are needed.

For instance, on a recent episode of the SaveHeart Stories podcast, Dale Wakasugi shares his story of surviving two episodes of SCA thanks to the availability of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and quick thinking/action by lay responders.

Investing in AEDs is THE most effective way to combat SCA in public spaces. Whether AEDs are placed in schools, parks, workplaces, or community centers, having these easy-to-use lifesaving devices readily available wherever people congregate can make all the difference.

But, having an AED onsite is really just the first step. It must be part of a comprehensive AED program where people are willing to use it, and where it must be properly maintained and monitored so it’s always in working condition when an SCA emergency strikes. Planning an effective AED program goes beyond just purchasing the devices.

What do you need to know to plan effectively? We created this guide to help you get informed.

 

Five Planning Questions You Need to Ask

Where should we put them?
The short answer is that AEDs belong in high traffic areas wherever people gather in large numbers. Historically, 99% of AEDs have been placed indoors- at schools, fitness facilities, workplaces, community centers, etc. All these places, and many others-are ideal. But a growing trend, driven by enhanced technology and awareness, now includes placing AEDs outside as well.

Regardless of whether placed indoors or outside, it’s critical that AEDs are highly visible and easy to access on a 24/7 basis. SaveHeart by Heart Nation offers a solution with its smart, digitally monitored, and highly visible outdoor AED stations. These American-made cases provide essential 24/7 access and monitoring, ensuring that the devices are available and ready to use whenever they’re needed.

What training do we need?
For the last decade or so, leading training organizations have included AEDs as part of their CPR training courses. While AEDs are designed for ease of use, training is critical to ensure that people are ready to respond in a real-life emergency where lay responder action is critical. Training sessions can help community members understand how to use the devices and perform CPR. You can partner with local health organizations or certified trainers to provide workshops.

Will we need to maintain them?
Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure they are in working order during an emergency. But even with the best of intentions and proper planning, sometimes ‘manual’ AED checks are missed or forgotten, Therefore, it’s best to opt for an AED solution that includes digital “smart” monitoring to help ensure your lifesaving AEDs are always ready and in working order.

SaveHeart’s ventilated, heated, and monitored AED cabinets not only provide highly visible, all-weather and temperature regulated protection, they also ensure that the lifesaving AED inside is always available and ready. Smart monitored technology alerts you if there’s an issue, offering peace of mind that your AEDs are always operational and ready to save a life. Click here to learn more about our product line.

Are we liable?
Before deploying AEDs, it’s important to be aware of the legal considerations in your area. While AED regulations can vary state-by-state, federal Good Samaritan laws protect individuals who use AEDs in emergencies. Ensure that your AED program complies with local regulations and provide documentation that outlines procedures for their use to minimize liability concerns. Ultimately, saving a life trumps all legal issues, but it also never hurts to make sure you’re aware of any rules and recommendations that set-up your community or organization for AED program success.

How much will this cost?
AEDs are not cheap, but they are affordable. And the cost of not having them is not acceptable. Just think- for the price of a laptop computer you can protect the life of a loved one in your family, school or town. Why wouldn’t you make this investment? Many communities often use a combination of donations, fundraising, or even federal, state or local grants to help cover costs. Establishing a sustainable funding plan ensures that your AED program remains operational and effective over the long term. At SaveHeart, we’ve been doing this long enough to know how to help you plan appropriately to get it done. Let’s talk about how we can help make your AED program come to life.

Ultimately, the question is not “if” you need these for your community. The question is “when”. And the answer is “now”. Ask yourself and your team these questions and be honest with your answers. Then, get an expert to help you satisfy your needs. That’s the right way to plan, and that’s how you can save lives.

SaveHeart by Heart Nation is dedicated to making life-saving technology accessible to everyone, anytime, anyplace. With our smart-monitored AED cabinets and program expertise, communities can feel confident knowing they are prepared for sudden cardiac emergencies.

Proudly ‘“Made in the USA,” SaveHeart’s highly visible, alarmed, lighted, temperature-controlled, and 24×7 monitored outdoor cabinets provide immediate visibility & access to lifesaving AEDs, Stop the Bleed Kits, Narcan, and other emergency supplies.

For more information on implementing an AED program in your community or to learn about our American-made, highly visible outdoor AED cabinets, please visit us at SaveHeart by Heart Nation.

Posted in AED Action Plan, Need to Know.