One of the reasons why some people are hesitant to jump in and help an obvious victim of cardiac arrest is the risk that, by exerting an effort, they might actually do more harm than good. After all, not many people are aware of how to conduct a CPR, much less, where exactly to place one’s hands. Fortunately for these people, if they are able to get their hands on an AED, they would be able to perform CPR and help revive a victim without breaking a sweat. Unfortunately, not many establishments and institutions have their own AED.
AED stands for Automated External Defibrillator. It is a portable electronic device typically used in order to diagnose cardiac arrhythmias in patients. In most cases, AEDs come with simple audio and visual commands that make it possible for a lay person to be able to administer CPR and make use of the device in order to revive a cardiac arrest patient.
Just last Wednesday, Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey has signed a law that makes it compulsory to have an AED within K-12 public as well as non-public schools. Known as the Janet’s law, the said legislature came about after Janet Zilinksi of Warren collapsed within school grounds in 2006. It was the lack of an AED that had led to Janet losing her life. Had an AED been administered within seconds, she could still have some fighting chance.
Janet’s case was not a rare one. In 2009, Brandon James, a student of the South Brunswick High School died after collapsing during a recreation basketball game in another school. Although the school had a defibrillator at that time, everyone depended on the defibrillator brought about by the paramedics since the latter came just a few minutes after the incident was called in. Unfortunately, the precious minutes that transpired were enough to cost James’ life
With the signing of the Janet’s Law, schools would now have to make sure that they have enough AED units available in case someone should need it. These devices should also be stored in an area easily accessed by everybody. Aside from these, the devices should also be particularly accessible during school hours as well as during after-school activities. Teachers and students alike would also need to be trained on how to use the said devices.
Janet’s Law would take effect by school year of 2014. The devices would form part of the school’s emergency action plan which should also include having at least 5 school employees or staff certified for CPR. The said emergency plan should also outline what would be done in case of an emergency and what numbers to call.
In today’s modern world, saving a life should be a tad easier. Having your hands on an AED could mean the difference between life and death of a loved one. Price should not be a problem as most AEDs are now affordable. Besides, who would want to worry about the price when precious life is at stake.
You can learn more about AED program management at Citywide CPR.
