Learn about HeartSafe’s AEDs
Learn more about the Cardiac Science Powerheart G3 AED and see an informative presentation by Cardiac Science.
What is an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
An AED, or automated external defibrillator, is a small, portable device that analyzes heart rhythms. It offers voice-prompted instructions and, if determined to be necessary, can deliver a potentially lifesaving shock to a victim in cardiac arrest.
How it works:
Just as you would provide CPR immediately to a person who is unresponsive and not breathing, you would deploy the AED. A computer inside the AED analyzes the heart rhythm to determine if a shock is needed. The AED will not deliver a shock if it doesn’t detect a life threatening heart rhythm.
Cardiac arrest is an electrical disturbance in the heart (often due to fibrillation) that causes a sudden loss of the heart’s ability to pump blood to the brain and other vital organs. The heart must be defibrillated quickly to restore the heart’s natural rhythm. The victim’s chance of surviving the cardiac arrest drops by 7-10 percent with each passing minute that a normal heartbeat is not restored.
Who can use an AED?
These defibrillators are designed for use by non-medically trained lay persons. Their easy to follow voice prompts guide a rescuer through the process of using the device, so almost anyone can deploy it. Defibrillators are most effective however, when used in conjunction with CPR. The HeartSafe Program can direct individuals interested in learning CPR to a 2 year certification through the American Heart Association.
Are there liability concerns in having an AED?
There is a “Good Samaritan Law” in place in the state of California for the use and placement of AEDs throughout the state. This law is known as AB2041 (click here for law). There are important stipulations required in the law to protect liability. The HeartSafe Program covers those stipulations by the services we provide.
May I purchase an AED for my home?
Absolutely, there are lesser stipulations for an AED that is purchased strictly for home use. In this situation it is required to obtain a prescription from a Medical Doctor or Cardiologist whose care the purchaser is under.
How may I learn more?
To learn more about AEDs and the HeartSafe Program, contact Sequoia Healthcare District, HeartSafe Program Manager, at (650) 421-2155 ext 204.
View an AED demo
Click here for a demo of a Cardiac Science AED
Click here for a demo of a Physio Control AED
Did you know?
Why are AEDs important?
To date, nothing can restart a stopped heart except an electric shock. When a person suffers a sudden cardiac arrest, for each minute that passes without defibrillation their chance of survival decreases by 7-10 percent. AEDs save lives!
