How can using defibrillators increase a person’s chance of surviving a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)?
The idea of using defibrillators, otherwise known as AED, may seem dramatic. Many people have mistaken this device as a dangerous medical item as they generate an electric way to deliver a shock to a person. On the contrary, defibrillators work much safer than we think. Still, it is important to understand the potential risks from improper use of the device and understand the ‘Do Not Resuscitate’ order.
AEDs at Work
Around 10,000 cardiac arrest cases occur in the workplace every year. With the lack of proper equipment and first aider nearby, 9 out of 10 workers suffer from death.
Luckily, there are ways to improve those odds. One is by performing CPR, and the other is through defibrillation that helps re-establish the heart’s rhythm.
Should you have a defibrillator in the workplace? Here are 6 good reasons for having one near the vicinity.
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Defibrillators can be an effective first aid procedure
Having an onsite defibrillator can improve survival odds as it provides lifesaving assistance before emergency services arrive. It works as a first aid response, especially if emergency help cannot arrive on time. AED use can restart the heart of the person who may be suffering from cardiac arrest in the workplace.
For this reason, we recommend business owners and employers implement AED training.
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Cardiac Arrest Happens Anytime
Sudden cardiac arrest has its symptoms, but there is no way to see it happening hours earlier. The bad news is that paramedics may not arrive sooner, and effective first aid is needed.
Having defibrillators in the workplace will help employees deal with sudden cardiac arrests. If they have the training, chances are they can save the lives of others, including those who are just visiting.
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Work Environment Can Increase the Risk of Heart Attack
Studies found that stress is linked to an increased risk of a heart attack—a work environment where a worker experiences high levels of stress will eventually need to have a defibrillator.
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Easy to Use
Defibrillators are easy to use, which any bystander can use in emergency situations. Still, your workplace must have good AED and CPR training in place. As mentioned, the survival rate drops with every minute without first aid. You must not waste any second fumbling around for instructions.
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Easy to Install
This device is easy to install, although there are certain considerations to keep in mind. The location of where you will store the device is the most important consideration. It should be visible, accessible, and should be able to reach within 3 minutes if a worker suffers from a cardiac arrest. Everyone in the workplace should know where to find the AED in an emergency.
How to Help Using AED
There are two key components to helping a victim of sudden cardiac arrest:
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to restore blood flow to the heart and brain.
- Electric shock from a defibrillator to stop erratic heartbeat and helps restore its normal rhythm.
If you witness a sudden cardiac arrest, call triple zero (000) and initiate CPR. Have another person in the workplace bring an AED. With the average medical response of seven to twelve minutes, the first three minutes are most critical. Starting CPR and Defibrillation right away can help save the victim’s life.
The use of AEDs can mean the difference between life and death. Make sure you know how to use it, and it will fit your organisation’s needs. If you need help providing training, look at our options on our website and contact us for any questions.
