Although it is not really required, it would be a big plus when you decide to learn some of the technicalities involved in operating an AED (automated external defibrillator). This is especially important if one of your loved ones suffers from a life-threatening heart disease and that in any point of time, your effective use of AED would be extremely needed to save his life. Other than that, knowing the technical details could also help you preserve the life of your device and so you could avoid accidents involving it.
Among the first technical things you need to learn about AEDs are the common terms used with it. One of these is the term ‘biphasic waveform’, which basically refers to the type of modulated electric signal used to decrease the magnitude of the required electric shock in the process. Through this, you could prevent or reduce risks of accidental burns, myocardial damage, and other unwanted results due to excessive electric energy delivered to the patient’s chest. Another important word to take note of is ‘escalating energy’. This term simply describes the type of delivery of electric shock where each successive shock is released with higher energy rating. One purpose for this is to prepare the heart for the certain amount of electrical joules to be delivered from the AED.
The next thing you should learn about is the electrocardiogram or ECG, which is a test that is used to detect and analyze the heart rhythm and heartbeat rating in order to determine whether there is any conduction abnormality of any symptoms of a heart disease. You should also understand and observe the device’s IP Rating, which stands for Ingress Protection Rating. This parameter indicates the level of protection designed to the device against ingress of or contact with any form of liquid or any foreign object. It falls into two types: the Liquid Ingress Protection and the Solid Ingress Protection. If you want an AED model that has maximum protection against various foreign materials, it’s best to choose one with Level 8 Liquid IP and Level 6 Solid IP Ratings.
Furthermore, it is also of great help to get familiar with the various prompts used in an AED. Simpler AED models make use of basic LED indicators while many of the high-end ones include text display screens and sometimes, video-enabled screens. Apart from that, you should also know about the device’s Pediatric Capability, which is a special feature that when turned on by some means, makes the device safe to use on children. In addition, you should also look for the device’s MAP and MSRP, which stand for Minimum Advertised Price and Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price, respectively.
If you are planning to put up an AED system in your community it would be best to take first the AED Program Management and AED Medical Oversight training courses offered at Citywide CPR. Just take time to check more details about AED Program Management and AED Medical Oversight as well as many other Citywide’s emergency medical services training programs at its official website.
