AED Ownership and Responsibility

AED Ownership and Responsibility

Photo: What NOT to do! Keep your AED visible, accessible, and ready to respond in case of an emergency!

Author: Marcy Burnham, RN – AED365 Leader

Whether you’re being a responsible business owner by purchasing an AED to help protect you and your co-workers while in the workplace, or you have an AED in your home to protect your family, you have taken a giant, proactive leap to provide an additional layer of safety for you and your people.  Well done! 

AED availability is essential in positive sudden cardiac arrest outcomes. According to the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation:
  • SCA affects nearly 1,000 people each day
  • 90% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA) are fatal
  • 70% of SCA’s occur in the home
  • Survival depends on the quick actions of people nearby calling 911, starting CPR, and using an AED as soon as possible
 
While these statistics are quite astonishing, owning an AED is essential in completing the Chain of Survival. In addition to ownership, one should also be responsible with ensuring their AED’s are compliant and ready to rescue. AED program management ensures AED’s are ready to use in the event of a SCA, which means an increase in the chance of survival. 

State and local laws, as well as AED manufacturer requirements can make achieving compliance difficult to navigate. Failing to comply with these AED laws and regulations means increased liability for your organization. 
Let AED365 help bring your AED program into compliance and readiness. There are over 30 helpful features of AED365 including:
  • 24×7 access to your AED Program
  • 99.9% uptime on secure and reliable servers
  • Unlimited program users/managers/directors, locations, inspections, and support
  • Monthly (or more frequent) inspection/ maintenance e-minders/emails/push notifications 
  • Battery and pad accessory expiration e-minders/emails/push notifications
  • Manage and track trained responders
  • 24×7 access to AED law library and AED document library
  • AED Rx
  • Physician oversight
  • AED response protocols
  • EMS notification
AED365:  Keeping YOUR AED program alive!

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

The Importance of AED Program Management

Author: Marcy Burnham

In the realm of emergency preparedness, few tools are as vital as Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). These devices can be literal lifesavers in critical moments of cardiac arrest, but like any tool, they require maintenance and inspection to ensure they’re ready when needed. Yet, with busy schedules and numerous responsibilities, it’s easy for these crucial checks to slip through the cracks. That’s where program management comes into play. Let’s explore how you can implement a systematic approach to AED inspection reminders, ensuring readiness and safety when it matters most.

AEDs are medical devices designed to deliver a life-saving shock to individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. However, their effectiveness hinges on proper functioning and maintenance. Regular inspections help identify issues such as expired batteries, electrode pads, or malfunctioning components, ensuring the AED is rescue-ready at all times.

Traditionally, AED inspection reminders relied on manual methods, such as calendars, spreadsheets, or simple checklists. While these approaches are better than no reminders at all, they come with limitations. Human error, overlooked entries, and lack of accountability can compromise the effectiveness of manual systems. Additionally, as organizations scale or manage multiple AEDs across various locations, manually tracking inspections becomes increasingly cumbersome and prone to oversight.

To address these challenges and streamline AED inspection reminders, program management is a wonderful alternative to pen and paper inspections and calendar reminders.

1. Utilize AED Management Software:
Invest in AED management software designed to automate inspection reminders and maintenance schedules. These platforms allow you to input AED details, including location, serial numbers, and expiration dates. They then generate automated reminders for inspection, battery replacement, pad expiration, and other maintenance tasks.

2. Establish a Centralized Database:
Maintain a centralized database containing comprehensive information about each AED under your purview. This database should include installation dates, last inspection dates, maintenance history, and any relevant notes. A well-organized database facilitates tracking and ensures nothing slips through the cracks.

3. Assign Responsibility:
Clearly define roles and responsibilities regarding AED maintenance within your organization. Designate individuals or teams tasked with overseeing inspections, responding to reminders, and performing necessary maintenance. Accountability fosters a culture of diligence and ensures that inspections are prioritized.

4. Regular Training and Education:
Provide regular training sessions to personnel responsible for AED maintenance. Ensure they understand the importance of timely inspections, how to perform them correctly, and what to do in case of identified issues. Education enhances competency and empowers staff to fulfill their roles effectively.

In emergencies, every second counts, and the reliability of AEDs can be a matter of life and death. By implementing a systemic approach to AED inspection reminders, organizations can enhance readiness, decrease risks, and ultimately save lives. Utilizing technology, establishing clear protocols, and fostering a culture of accountability are key steps in ensuring that AEDs remain reliable assets in times of crisis. Remember, proactive maintenance today can make all the difference tomorrow!

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

Navigating Accountability: A Lesson from Henry County EMS

Author: Brady McLaughlin

In a recent and noteworthy legal development, the Kentucky Court of Appeals delivered a ruling that has sent ripples through emergency medical services across the nation. On March 8, 2024, in the case (No. 2022-CA-1330-MR), the court determined that Henry County Emergency Medical Services personnel, EMT Kristian Brock and paramedic Christopher Stone, could be held personally liable for a wrongful death. This case stems from events dating back to September 2017, which culminated in a tragedy partly due to delayed response times and equipment failure.

The Incident Unfolds

The incident in question began with a distress call to Henry County EMS, reporting an individual suffering from chest pain. Brock and Stone were dispatched to the scene, situated merely 3.8 miles from the station. However, the duo’s reliance on Active911, a third-party GPS navigation app, led them off course, resulting in a delayed 16-minute response time. Upon arrival, the situation worsened as the patient went into full cardiac arrest, and attempts to use a LifePak 12 defibrillator were thwarted by a malfunction, culminating in the patient’s untimely demise.

Legal Proceedings and Implications

The subsequent lawsuit targeted not only Henry County EMS but also Brock and Stone, both in their official capacities and personally. While the court upheld the governmental immunities protecting the county and the individuals in their official roles, it drew a line when it came to personal responsibility. The lawsuit against Brock and Stone was allowed to proceed, spotlighting their failure to adhere to critical protocols, including routine equipment checks and the use of authorized navigation tools.

The ruling sheds light on the absence of governmental immunity due to their negligence in following county-established guidelines, notably the checks and balances concerning AED (Automated External Defibrillator) usage and maintenance.

Reflections and Takeaways

This case serves as a potent reminder of the weight of responsibility shouldered by emergency services personnel. It underscores the paramount importance of strict adherence to operational protocols and equipment maintenance – not only as a matter of legal compliance but, more importantly, as a matter of public safety.

For EMS departments and professionals nationwide, this ruling highlights the necessity of:

  • Establishing and enforcing clear AED inspection and maintenance policies.
  • Conducting regular and thorough equipment checks in line with these policies.
  • Maintaining meticulous records of all maintenance activities and inspections.

While the ruling is directly relevant to Kentucky’s public employees, its implications extend far beyond state lines, offering critical insights for AED programs and emergency response protocols nationwide. It is a clarion call for all emergency medical services to reevaluate and reinforce their operational procedures and training programs, ensuring that the tragic events of Henry County do not repeat elsewhere.

The case of Brock and Stone is a sobering reminder that in the fast-paced, high-stakes world of emergency medical services, there is no room for error. The safety of the community and the legal and personal accountability of EMS professionals hang in the balance, hinging on each decision made and action taken in the line of duty.

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

Emotional Support Following Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Author: Marcy Burnham

Facing a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a life-altering experience, not only for the survivor but also for their loved ones. While medical treatment and rehabilitation are crucial aspects of recovery, the emotional journey following such a traumatic event is often overlooked but equally significant. It’s a path filled with various emotions, uncertainties, and adjustments. Emotional support plays a pivotal role in the healing process. It provides survivors with the reassurance, validation, and understanding they need to cope with their feelings and adjust to life post-SCA. Here are some key aspects of emotional support for survivors:

  • Validation of Feelings: Survivors need to know that it’s okay to feel scared, anxious, or overwhelmed. Validating their emotions creates a safe space for them to express themselves without judgment.
  • Empathetic Listening: Sometimes, survivors just need someone to listen without offering solutions or advice. Empathetic listening involves being fully present and attentive to their concerns, allowing them to articulate their feelings openly.
  • Encouragement and Affirmation: Offering words of encouragement and affirmation can boost a survivor’s confidence and self-esteem. Remind them of their strength and resilience as they navigate the challenges of recovery.
  • Access to Support Groups: Connecting with other survivors who have experienced similar challenges can be immensely beneficial. Support groups provide a sense of community, understanding, and shared experiences, helping survivors feel less isolated.
  • Professional Counseling: In some cases, survivors may benefit from professional counseling or therapy to address underlying emotional issues or trauma. A trained therapist can offer valuable tools and coping strategies to manage stress, anxiety, or depression.

Surviving sudden cardiac arrest is a significant milestone, but the journey to recovery extends far beyond the physical realm. Emotional support plays a crucial role in helping survivors navigate the complexities of their feelings and adjust to life post-SCA. Let’s work together to help survivors rebuild their lives with resilience, courage, and hope along their journey to healing physically and emotionally.

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

AED’s in Extreme Temperatures

Author: Marcy Burnham

Now that you’ve purchased your AED, placed it in its assigned area/cabinet, and it’s ready to rescue, it’s time to think about AED functionality in extreme temperatures.  Throughout the United States, we have been seeing record low and high temperatures over the past few years.  It is vital to have an AED present and ready to rescue.  We must also keep in mind that an AED is an electronic device which does have limits in extreme temperatures. Typically, the temperature range for normal AED operations is 32-122° F, since extreme temperatures can impact normal functions by draining the battery or altering the gel found in pads.  To avoid damage and assist your AED with normal functionality:

  • Keep the AED in a shady area out of direct sunlight.
  • Place your AED in a small, insulated bag or cooler that has CLEARLY been marked so it is easily found.
  • If you need to keep your AED in a vehicle, store it in the temperature-controlled cabin of the vehicle, and bring it inside at night.
  • Invest in an all-weather outdoor AED cabinet.
  • Inspect the AED monthly to ensure it is functioning properly.

In order to maximize the life of your AED, pads, and batteries, the AED should not be stored in temperatures above or below the manufacturer’s suggested range.  Keeping with these recommendations can make a difference in your AED’s rescue-readiness.  

If you feel the normal functions of your AED have been compromised due to extreme weather conditions, or you’re unable to get your AED ready to rescue, please feel free to reach out to us. 

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

AED Program Management in the Workplace

Author: Marcy Burnham

More than 356,000 people have an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in the United States every year, and 60%-80% of them die before reaching the hospital. About 10,000 of these cardiac arrests occurred in the workplace. It is vitally important that your facility has an AED present that is ready to rescue at a moment’s notice and that your employees are prepared to respond in the event of an emergency.    Below are some suggestions to consider when assessing and implementing safety in the workplace:

  • Assign a particular person or division to commit to promoting safety awareness
  • Keep AED’s and other safety equipment (First Aid Kits, Bleeding Control Kits, etc.) in highly visible, easily accessible areas 
  • Enroll your team in CPR, First Aid, and AED courses
  • Develop a Response Plan and practice emergency drills frequently
  • Invest in AED program management to ensure AED compliance and readiness to rescue   

Our goals at GoRescue and AED365 are to help ensure that you and your employees are adequately trained in CPR and AED use, and that your facility is properly protected with the correct safety equipment.  Let’s all work together to ensure we, as well as our coworkers, are prepared with the knowledge, resources, and skills to help save a life.  Who knows…the life that needs saving one day may be yours!

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

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.