AED in your home? Within 4 minutes of a cardiac arrest, a person who fails to CPR can be left brain dead
Would you know what to do if someone in your home suffered a cardiac arrest? This is why an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) in homes makes sense.
Cardiac Arrest vs Heart Attack
Cardiac arrest is the abrupt loss of heart function in a person who may or may not have been diagnosed with heart disease.
Cardiac arrest and “heart attack” are different. Read this article for the details. A heart attack is when blood flow to the heart is blocked, it is a "circulation" problem. This can lead to a cardiac arrest, which is referred to as an “electrical” problem where the heart malfunctions and suddenly stops beating unexpectedly.
In Australia, Sudden Cardiac Arrest is the leading cause of death. Around 30,000 people suffer a sudden cardiac arrest each year. After collapsing from a cardiac arrest, it is vital for a bystander to commence CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) as every minute that passes without CPR or use of a defibrillator seriously diminishes a person’s chance of survival.
- Within 4 minutes of a cardiac arrest, a person can become brain dead without CPR
- CPR buys the patient time whilst waiting for an ambulance
- The average response time for an ambulance is 11 minutes
Improve Survival Chances
The very best chance of survival for a person suffering from cardiac arrest is immediate access to a defibrillator (AED). The risk of death increases by 10% for every minute defibrillation is delayed – the ambulance takes on average 11 minutes! Studies have shown that the use of a defibrillator as quickly as possible after the heart has stopped beating can increase survival rates by as much as 75%.
For the price of a personal computer, you can invest in the well-being of your family and friends by purchasing an AED for your home.
Not all cardiac arrest sufferers have predisposed heart conditions or show signs of a cardiac arrest being imminent. Cardiac arrest is non-discriminatory and can affect healthy, active people without notice. If you are a regular traveller, boatie or 4WD enthusiast why not have a second one where you might need it most and be able to assist fellow community members as well if needed.
Remember to call 000 immediately in the event of a cardiac arrest.
This article is intended for informational purposes. Please attend one of our first aid courses for relevant educational advice.
Related Articles
In the realm of first aid, every second counts. When faced with emergencies ranging from severe injuries to sudden trauma, providing immediate care can significantly impact outcomes. Among the arsenal of tools available to first responders and caregivers, shock blankets stand out as a simple yet invaluable resource.
In workplaces across Australia, ensuring the safety and well-being of employees is paramount. One critical aspect of maintaining a safe work environment is having a properly stocked first aid kit readily available.
A face shield, or CPR face mask, is essentially a plastic sheet with a fabric section containing a non-return valve. It is of a size to place over the face of a person in need of resuscitation and can help protect the rescuer from any fluids that may be present in and around the mouth of the casualty.
CPR involves mouth-to-mouth contact, which can put both the caregiver and the patient at risk of exposure to body fluids. This is where personal protective equipment (PPE) comes in, and one of the most important PPE items is a resuscitation mask.
Camping in Australia offers the opportunity to explore our diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches to rugged mountains and dense forests. While immersing yourself in the great outdoors, it's crucial to be prepared for unexpected disasters. From simple scratches and insect bites, all the way to life-threatening emergencies, it pays to be prepared.
Party season is upon us, especially for those with teens who are shortly finishing school. While safety is often not top of mind for house parties, knowing that you have an appropriately stocked first aid kit can certainly be comforting.
Having essential first aid items on hand is critical for any emergency situation. Good health and a well-stocked first aid kit are essential for a prompt response. Strategies for building a comprehensive first aid kit, and the benefits of taking a first aid course, will help you be prepared for any emergency. This article will discuss the essential supplies for every first aid kit and what you need to keep on hand.
The first aid kit sign is a universal sign that signals the direction or location of first aid or safety equipment and other emergency related facilities. Knowing the first aid kit sign could keep you safe while travelling abroad.
The abbreviation for "automated external defibrillator" (AED) is "AED." Because it is automated, it will perform all of the laborious tasks for you.
Without intervention, a victim of cardiac arrest can be brain-dead within 4 to 6 minutes and dead in 10 minutes. Intervention with an AED has improved the odds of survival by an astounding 600 per cent.