|
It only takes a small amount of training to learn defibrillation. In just 3 to 4 hours of hands-on practice, responders review CPR, safety protocols, and how to place pads and deliver a shock.
Lay people can now see AEDs hanging on the wall in a variety of places, readily available and well within reach. Hearing about publicized saves or knowing someone who has had cardiac arrest often inspires lay people to seek AED training. Although non-trained lay people could use an AED in an emergency, it is highly recommended that only trained responders use AEDs.
Who should get trained?
Training is recommended for everyone, from the lay responder to the emergency room physician, including:
Emergency medical technicians, fire service personnel, police officers, and safety officers
Non-medical professionals, such as flight attendants, school personnel, health club attendants, and other people who work at or frequent public areas
Motivated citizen responders, who realize that bystanders are often the first to arrive at the scene of an SCA event.
CPR is the life-saving link that keeps a victim's organs functioning until defibrillation therapy begins. Therefore, CPR training is recommended in concert with AED training. A variety of not-for-profit organizations offer CPR and AED training. The American Heart Association's ECC Training Network recently developed a 4-hour Heartsaver AED Course that integrates CPR and AED training. Other national training organizations include:
American Red Cross
EMTA
MedAire
Medic First Aid
National Safety Council
Check with your state's EMS agency to see if the program you choose conforms to your state's guidelines for training public safety personnel.
|
