What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

Essentially, the heart’s electrical systems malfunctions. The heart unexpectedly and abruptly stops beating. It is generally caused by an abnormal heart rhythm called Ventricular Fibrillation.

Who is at risk?

SCA is a global killer. Only 5-10% of victims survive. Every minute of every day SCA claims a victim. It strikes without warning. Although the average age of victims is 65, it strikes everyone... even the young and athletic!

What is an AED?

Short for "Automated External Defibrillator", an AED:

• Automatically analyzes the patient's heart rhythm.
• Determines whether a shock is needed.
• Uses voice and screen prompts to guide the rescuer through the process.

Defibrillation is the only effective treatment of Ventricular Fibrillation. It reorganizes the chaotic electrical activity of the heart and returns it to a normal rhythm. CPR is not enough.

You cannot count on saving a life with CPR as it is a temporary measure for maintaining oxygen to the brain. Defibrillation is necessary to re-establish a regular heartbeat.

AEDs are designed to be used by anyone with minimal training. Communities are placing AEDs wherever people gather ... including in the workplace, airports, hotels and casinos, golf courses, sports arenas, shopping centers, schools and public buildings.

8 Steps to Building a Successful AED Program

Step 1

Understand the Opportunity:
Educate key members on healthy lifestyles and key concerns of sudden cardiac arrest.

Step 2

Plan the Program:
Profile existing health services, analyze AED needs and strategies and develop an appropriate HeartSave™ Program.

Step 3

Solve for Potential Obstacles:
Define the approval process and decision makers. Identify internal and external funding requirements, potential HeartSave™ responders and medical direction

Step 4

Develop Support:
Educate decision makers and volunteers. Develop funding strategy and proposals.

Step 5

Approve the Program:
Internal budget approval. External funding approval. Contract for program implementation.

Step 6

Build Capacity:
Train the Heart Save responders. Finalize the HeartSave™ response plan.

Step 7

Start the Program:
Place the AEDs. Display the HeartSave™ certificate and signage. Coordinate with the local ambulance service.

Step 8

Quality Aftercare:
Schedule recertification of responders. Schedule servicing of AEDs. Have professional medical analysis of AED response incidents.

Contact us for more information on building and implementing an AED program that's right for you!