Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Information

Aug 26, 2008 - 1:48:43 PM

The Office of Security and Emergency Preparedness (OSEP) provides information on AEDs for educational purposes only. OSEP does not endorse or suggest any AED products.

(Referenced from the American Heart Association's website www.americanheart.org)

The Automated external defibrillator (AED) is a computerized medical device. An AED can check a person's heart rhythm. It can recognize a rhythm that requires a shock. And it can advise the rescuer when a shock is needed. The AED uses voice prompts, lights and text messages to tell the rescuer the steps to take.

AEDs are very accurate and easy to use. With a few hours of training anyone can learn to operate an AED safely. There are many different brands of AEDs, but the same basic steps apply to all of them. The American Heart Association does not recommend a specific model.

Additional information can be found at the following links:

AED Technical Information Bulletin

U.S Department of Labor

Occupational Health & Safety Administration

http://www.osha.gov/dts/tib/tib_data/tib20011217.html

AED Programs Q&A

American Heart Association

http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3011859

Information re: AED Prescriptions

http://www.americanaed.com/freeprescription.html

Information re: AED Products

http://www.americanaed.com/products.html

http://www.ernetwork.com/products/prescription.htm