AEDs are also quite fail-safe. Placing the electrode pads on the victim enables the AED to sense the heart rhythm and make appropriate voice prompts. Even if the rescuer is overzealous and presses the shock button without an appropriate voice prompt, defibrillation attempts will not happen. This liability protection requires physician oversight of the program, and that AED use is limited to properly trained responders, be maintained per manufacturer guidelines, and be integrated with the local Emergency Medical Services system. The growing trend toward AED programs may eventually increase liability for facilities not prepared to respond appropriately to a cardiac emergency.
Cardiac arrest is a matter of life or death.
It is strongly encouraged that all of the colleges and facilities within the Maricopa County Community College District establish AED programs. After all, the shocking truth is that it's the right thing to do. All Rights Reserved.