Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/1090114
UTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATORS (AEDS) SAVE LIVES. However, contrary to the anecdot- al evidence surrounding them when they first became available, they are not dummy-proof. If an ice rink operator chooses to have one onsite, he or she needs to do more than simply hang the defibrillator on the wall. The operator must establish a comprehensive AED program to ensure proper medical oversight and training. WHAT IS AN AED? An AED is a portable electronic device, which applies electrical therapy to stop a heart arrhythmia, allowing the heart to reestablish an effective rhythm. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the adult "Chain of Survival" has four essential elements. 1. Early Access – Early recognition that an emergency is occurring and quick notification of emergency services; 2. Early CPR – Immediate commence- ment of CPR to circulate oxygen-rich blood to the brain and heart. This buys time for the patient until defibrillation is performed; 3. Early Defibrillation – Defibrillation is most effective within 3-5 minutes of the emergency; 4. Early Advanced Care – Trained healthcare providers arriving quickly and providing advanced care 1 . ESTABLISHING AN AED PROGRAM If a facility installs an AED, it must estab- lish a corresponding AED program. The program must include medical oversight and needs to comply with state and local laws for AEDs. The AHA recommends the following elements for any AED program 2 . Program Coordinator Choose a dedicated program coordinator who is onsite on a daily basis. This person will be responsible for the program on a Dilemma A Simply having this life-saving device is not enough IF A FACILITY INSTALLS AN AED, IT MUST ESTABLISH A CORRESPONDING AED PROGRAM. 40 / MARCH.APRIL.2019 USICERINKS.COM Solving THE AED PHOTO: COURTESY OF TJ TURNER PICTURES C M Y CM MY CY CMY K