Recent technological advancements have created not just devices for recreational and leisure schemes but also tools that could be used for medical and emergency purposes. Automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable life saving device that, because of modern science, has become an important clinical apparatus. When the button of the portable machine is pushed, electric shock will be delivered to the person’s heart. Electric shock is needed to bring back the heart to its normal rhythm after it has experienced sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) rescue attempts coupled by AEDs proved to be advantageous in saving lives.
Research shows that at least 20,000 lives could be saved annually by using AED. Deployment of AED trained responders, likewise, could prevent as many as 50,000 deaths each year, due to sudden cardiac arrest. Discerning the importance of the machine with regards to the health of most Americans, state legislators have become actively involved in enacting state laws and amending provisions to encourage availability and community access of the machine. Indeed, owners and employers have considered buying it which eventually leads to placement of the device in public buildings, transportation centers and even large offices and apartment buildings.
The mere placement and availability of AEDs, however, is not enough. This could be proven by the staff at a Washington DC gym as their AED failed to save Ralph Polanec’s heart. The gym personnel grab the device immediately but could not turn it on that had resulted to Polanec’s death. It was later found out that the batteries were removed and were never replaced. The incident had lead to public scrutiny and to stricter state requirements. The state is now requiring AED owners to include AED program management and AED medical oversight to effectively utilize the device during emergency procedures.
AED medical oversight includes review, monitoring, and supervision of the CPR and AED programs of different facilities such as hotels, clubs, companies, schools and universities, and manufacturing plants. It is not just about taking an in-depth look and examination of the community’s responsiveness to SCA but also lead the process of making improvement to secure an optimal AED program. The oversight, facilitated by a medical director, also ensures if the program is sound and effective since there is a number of requirements and standards that should be met, and reviews AED application in the community to provide suggestions and adjustments that could be used in the next emergency application. AED program management, however, is a solution that deals with the proper management of the device. Since most AED failures are attributed to the batteries, pads, and wirings, the system tracks AED maintenance as well as provides reminder for AED parts expiration, state requirements, and AED training recertification.
CitywideCPR Inc. is a training facility that offers AED medical oversight and AED program management, along with their CPR, BLS, ACLS, and other training, for small companies and large corporations. The medical consultancy’s medical oversight and program management comply with the requirements of most states protecting clients from possible lawsuits and legal liability. The program is also facilitated by a registered physician to ensure quality oversight. Their program management is also beyond the usual reminders and maintenance of AEDs as they also provide complete data management following an AED usage. The training facility offers training services across the country and is located to more than 30 major cities and states.
For more information about AED medical oversight and AED program management, please check our website.
