AEDs in Workplace and Occupational Health

Cardiac arrest is one of the top causes of death in adults in the United States. According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration, the majority of sudden cardiac arrest deaths occur out of the hospital. Therefore, it's crucial to have AED's ready and available to employees. Our selection of AED machines are easy use and deliver a quick response in case of an emergency. Contact Henry Schein Medical to promote a safer work environment.

Buying AED Machines from Henry Schein Medical

Once you've found the AED machine that fits your needs, our equipment specialists will be there to answer any question you may have. Our specialists have vast backgrounds and experience in the medical equipment field making them experts. If you have any questions, please contact our team today and let us assist you in your purchasing journey.

Questions to Ask When Purchasing an AED Machine

Whether you're wondering about AED usage, benefits, or maintenance, Henry Schein is here to help. Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions when it comes to selecting the right AED machine. Explore the information below and be sure to reach out if you have any questions.

How do Automated External Defibrillators Work?

When the AED is turned on and the pads are placed on the patient's chest, the device will analyze the patient's heart rhythm to determine if a shock is needed. If a shock is advised, the AED will prompt the rescuer to clear the area and press the shock button. The shock is delivered through the pads and into the patient's chest. After the shock is delivered, the AED will continue to monitor the patient's heart rhythm and provide further instructions as needed.

It's important to note that the use of an AED is often paired with CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). When performing CPR, chest compressions help to circulate blood throughout the body, including to the heart, and artificial respiration helps to oxygenate the body. The combination of CPR and AED use can increase the chances of survival for someone experiencing cardiac arrest.

AEDs are life-saving devices that can quickly analyze a patient's heart rhythm and deliver a shock if needed. Proper training on AED use and CPR can help medical professionals act quickly and effectively in an emergency situation.

What are the Two Types of AED Machines?

Public Access AEDs:

• Designed to be used by non-medical personnel
• Found in public places like airports, schools, and shopping malls
• Simple to use and have clear instructions to guide the user through the defibrillation process
• May have features such as voice prompts and automatic analysis of heart rhythm.

Professional Use AEDs:

• Used by medical personnel such as paramedics, nurses, and doctors.
• May have additional features and capabilities, such as the ability to analyze multiple heart rhythms, to provide synchronized cardioversion for certain arrhythmias, and to monitor the patient's vital signs.
• Used in hospital settings and may be more advanced and sophisticated than public access AEDs.

When Should Medical Professional Use an AED Machine?

Medical professionals who purchase an AED machine should receive proper training on its use and when it should be used. Some situations that may require the use of an AED machine include:

1. Sudden cardiac arrest: An AED should be used when a person is experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. Symptoms may include loss of consciousness, no pulse, and no breathing.
2. During CPR: AEDs are often used in conjunction with CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), which is a life-saving technique that involves chest compressions and artificial respiration to maintain circulation and oxygenation of the body. AEDs can be used while performing CPR to increase the chances of survival for someone experiencing cardiac arrest.
3. In public places: AEDs are often placed in public places, such as airports, sports facilities, and shopping centers, to increase the chances of survival in case of a sudden cardiac arrest. Medical professionals should be advised to use the AED if they come across someone experiencing cardiac arrest in a public place.

When to Not Use an AED Machine

In general, AED machines should not be used in the following situations:

1. The patient is breathing normally: If the patient is breathing normally and has a pulse, an AED should not be used.
2. The patient is wet: If the patient is wet, such as in a pool or in the rain, they should be dried off before the AED is used. Water can conduct electricity, which can cause serious harm to the rescuer or patient.
3. The patient is in contact with metal: If the patient is lying on a metal surface, such as a metal floor, they should be moved to a safer location before the AED is used. Metal can also conduct electricity, which can cause harm to the rescuer or patient.
4. The AED pads cannot be placed correctly: If the AED pads cannot be placed correctly on the patient's chest, the AED should not be used. The pads must be placed in the correct location in order for the AED to work properly.

It's important to always follow the manufacturer's instructions and receive proper training on the use of AED machines before using them. Additionally, medical professionals should always use their clinical judgment when determining whether an AED is appropriate for a particular patient.

Maintaining an AED Machine

Maintaining and caring for an AED machine is crucial to ensure that it functions properly when needed. Here are some guidelines that you can share with your customers:

1. Regularly inspect the AED machine: It's important to inspect the AED machine on a regular basis, checking for any signs of wear or damage. This includes checking the condition of the pads, cables, and battery, and ensuring that the AED is free from dust and debris.
2. Replace the pads and battery as needed: The pads and battery of an AED machine have a limited lifespan, so it's important to replace them as recommended by the manufacturer. This ensures that the AED is always ready to use in case of an emergency.
3. Store the AED machine in a suitable location: The AED machine should be stored in a dry, cool location, away from extreme heat, cold, or humidity. It should also be easily accessible and clearly marked for emergency use.
4. Train staff in AED use: All staff who may be required to use the AED machine should receive proper training in AED use and CPR. This includes both initial training and regular refresher courses to ensure that everyone is prepared to respond in an emergency.
5. Keep accurate records: Keeping accurate records of AED maintenance, including the date of inspections and any repairs or replacements, can help ensure that the AED machine is always in good working condition.

Each AED machine may have its own specific instructions and maintenance requirements, so it's important to refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for detailed information on caring for and maintaining a particular AED machine.