Unique Situations When Using an AED

Author: Marcy Burnham

In a cardiac emergency, every second is crucial in providing a positive outcome for the victim.  Feeling confident in using an AED and performing CPR are essential.  Though you may have received excellent instruction during your AED/CPR class, there are still some variables to consider in real-life situations.  In a classroom setting, the environment and situations are controlled.  In the field, there may be some unique challenges you face. Below are some situations that can potentially arise when resuscitating someone in the field:

  • Hairy chest- excessive hair may prevent the electrode pad from adhering correctly. An adequately stocked response kit containing a razor can be used to shave the hair.  
  • Pediatric patients- smaller victims require a reduced electrical shock, use pediatric pads when available.  When using adult pads on a child, place one pad in the center of the victim’s chest, and the other in the center of the back.
  • Transdermal medications (patches)- medication patches can burn a victim if a shock is provided over the patch.  Don gloves to remove the patch and clean off any residue before applying pads.
  • Implantable devices- pacemakers or defibrillators can block the shock or damage the device during an AED use.  Avoid placing electrodes over these areas if you see a suspicious scar or a lump in the chest.
  • Submerged or wet patients- it is critical to deliver a shock directly to the heart.  Water may reduce the effectiveness of the shock.  It is recommended to move the victim away from the water and place him on a dry surface, drying off the chest area before applying the pads.

AED’s are designed to be user- friendly, while offering voice prompts and instructions throughout the emergency.  Providing confident, effective care in the midst of unique challenges could be the difference in life or death for the victim.  Hopefully these tips will help you identify and feel better prepared to use an AED.

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

The intersection of cybersecurity and saving lives:  

Author: Marcy Burnham

Now, more than ever, cybersecurity is becoming essential to our everyday lives.  We depend so heavily on computers and other electronic devices to store our important information, causing us to feel stranded and vulnerable when a breach occurs.  Cybersecurity should be taken seriously as it protects our computers, networks, and electronic devices from unauthorized access, theft, and damage. Data breaches can result in the loss of millions of private records and sensitive data, affecting everyone whose personal information may have been stolen.

The top 5 reasons cybersecurity is important:

  1. Cyberattacks harm people since so much of our lives are connected to computers
  2. Technology changes quickly
  3. Cyberattackers are getting smarter
  4. Loss of jobs
  5. Identity theft

At AED365 we strive daily to protect your account information.  We are FedRAMP compliant and use Amazon Web Services to ensure the safety and security of your important, protected information. It is essential to protect all information from falling into the wrong hands.  

To prevent data breaches:

• Use strong passwords
• Use multi-factor authentication
• Update software regularly
• Encrypt data


Being alert, monitoring fraudulent activity, and working together to prevent data breaches canhelp us be prepared and help minimize the potential damage of a cyberattack.

Feel confident in entrusting your private information to AED365.  We are here for you to help keep your AED program alive!

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

The Chain of Survival

Food Chain.  Chains That Bind.  Supply Chains.  Chain Breaker

We have all heard of these different types of phrases including the word chain.  Perhaps the most important chain related to life saving is the Chain of Survival.  We have all heard of the Chain of Survival, but what is it exactly?

The Chain of Survival includes steps to improve the chance of a victim’s survival of a SCA.  It begins with bystanders who can help the victim’s heart keep blood flowing to the brain until a healthy rhythm can be established.  The Chain of Survival consists of the following steps:

  • Early recognition and activation of the emergency response system- If a person is unresponsive and not breathing, call 911 immediately
  • Rapid Defibrillation- Place an AED on the victim and follow the steps according to the audio and visual instructions
  • Advanced Life Support- EMS professionals provide specific care during transport to hospital
  • Post-Cardiac Arrest Care- Hospital professionals provide comprehensive care for the victim
  • Recovery- Care Team includes additional treatments, rehabilitation, and psychological support for survivors and their families

While it’s true that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, take steps now to ensure that you are prepared and ready to respond when faced with an emergent situation.  If in doubt, give AED365 a call and we can help set you on a course to success!

Office: (205) 417-4711
Email: [email protected]

I have an AED – what do I need to know?

co-authored by Marcy Burnham, RN – AED365 Leader, and Brady B. McLaughlin, MS, NREMT – CEO and AED Expert

This question is more common than you may think.  Whether you just purchased an AED or have been an AED owner for years, many people have questions about AEDs, or automated external defibrillators.

AEDs are vital to saving lives in the event of Sudden Cardiac Arrest, or SCA.  Along with having an AED readily available, other elements of emergency response are necessary to complete each link of the Chain of Survival:
  • Early recognition and activation of emergency response (9-1-1)
  • High-quality CPR (hands-on)
  • Rapid defibrillation (AED)
  • Advanced care and transportation (EMS transport via ambulance)
  • Coordinated definitive care (hospital and cardiac ICU) 
  • Recovery
To strengthen the Chain, key initiatives include:
  • CPR AED training
  • AED inspections and checks
  • AED maintenance
  • EMS agency registration (if required)
  • Medical direction (if required)
AED ownership, adequate training, and a properly maintained AED all work hand in hand to save lives. 

Make sure your AED is easily accessible and ADA-complaint with the cabinet mounted no higher than 48 inches above the floor.

Ensure the AED is easily identifiable with AED signage.

Make sure you meet all applicable local, state, and federal laws for your AED and facility.
 
AED365 has proven to be an easy, efficient way to ensure your AED is compliant and ready to rescue.  Our sole focus is keeping your AED program alive.  With over 30 powerful features, AED365 is designed with the end-user in mind, making the inspection process easy to accomplish in less than 60 seconds.  Using an AED to save lives isn’t hard; managing your AED program shouldn’t be either.