Annually, an alarming 220,000 people succumb to sudden cardiac arrest in the U.S. – 10,000 of them while at work. In Canada, roughly 35,000 people suffer from cardiac arrest in public places. Sadly, the odds are stacked against us in such an emergency.
Only 5-7% of people survive if we wait for ambulances or paramedics to arrive, reports the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This means time is of the essence, and we must take immediate action to save lives.
To ensure immediate and adequate response to cardiac emergencies, workplaces should invest in automated external defibrillators (AEDs). To that end, if you’re shopping for the device, you may review the philips heart start frx that you need to buy, or explore other quality options from AED Advantage.
An automated external defibrillator is designed to offer quick and easy access to life-saving cardiac emergency care. When used correctly, AEDs can help restore an erratic heartbeat and increase the chances of survival for someone suffering from cardiac arrest. Here’s an in-depth look at the justifications for investing in this handy medical device.
1. Saves Valuable Time
As aforementioned, every second counts when trying to save a life. And given that a cardiac arrest occurs suddenly, how soon an individual receives assistance could mean the difference between life and death.
AEDs reduce response time and enhance survival rates. Specifically, 60% of victims who have a defibrillator used on them before an ambulance arrives are likely to survive. Thus, having the device ready implies you can respond promptly if needed. Besides reducing fatality rates, AEDs help organizations create greater awareness regarding how to react in a cardiac emergency.
2. Easy to Use
AEDs are designed to be extremely easy to use – even by untrained individuals. Generally, they sport pre-programmed instructions and an intuitive interface (with text instruction and audio prompts) to guide users, so you don’t need prior training to use it. Thus, in three minutes or less, you could save a life.
What’s more, they’re highly portable. Their lightweight and compact construction means you can carry and use them anywhere. Whether at the office or on a field assignment with your team, you can keep a unit at hand. They also include a wall-mounted cabinet for easy installation and access.
Plus, modern AEDs are increasingly sophisticated and feature improved safety mechanisms that reduce the chances of injury or death caused by incorrect usage. For instance, they only work if a victim has no pulse. This averts the risk of accidental electric shocks, which can be fatal. These versatile devices are also compatible with other medical devices, such as intravenous pumps and heart monitors, ensuring a smoother connection and care coordination.
3. Cost-Effective Option
Understandably, many people are concerned about the high cost of buying an AED unit, especially when they lack the necessary budget. However, AEDs provide long-term protection and can be used in multiple emergencies. Plus, they’re available at various price points, implying you can find one to suit your budget.
And let’s face it; a life saved can’t be measured in monetary terms. All the same, compared to the cost of workplace death, an AED is relatively inexpensive. Plus, when you factor in the peace of mind it provides, it’s no surprise that more businesses are investing in life-saving AEDs.
4. Enhances an Organization’s Public Image
Having an AED at your workplace improves the safety of your employees. It also shows the public that you care about their welfare – your organization is willing to go the extra mile to ensure everyone’s safety – which could reflect positively on your brand image.
5. Facilitates Training and Drills
Proper training is instrumental to the proper use of an AED. Having the device on-site implies a firm can train their employees and ensure they know how to respond in a cardiac emergency. To facilitate this, you can use an AED for practice drills (simulation of real-life experiences); this helps your team become more confident and competent.
Thus, should the unfortunate happen, they can handle the situation without pause. Likewise, refresher courses can help your team stay updated with the latest developments regarding AEDs and CPR. Thus, having the unit at your workplace allows you to practice proper device usage until the process is automatic.
The potential benefits of having an AED far outweigh the cost of acquiring or maintaining one. And when someone’s life is on the line, this handy device could significantly reduce the time to revive them. Hence, every workplace should consider investing in it. You never know; the device could save a life – maybe yours!
