What is an AED?
An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a lightweight, portable device. It delivers an electric shock through the chest to the heart when it detects an abnormal rhythm and changes the rhythm back to normal.
AEDs help people who have a sudden cardiac arrest, which occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating regularly. This happens when the heart’s natural electrical system doesn’t work correctly. If not treated within minutes, cardiac arrest quickly leads to death. Sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death in the US. Over 350,000 people will suffer from sudden cardiac arrest this year.
AEDs are intended for use by the general public (lay responders). AEDs, unlike hospital defibrillators, require little training. First aid, basic life support and CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, classes teach a layperson how to use the device. The fully operational and easy-to-use device allows a trained, non-medical professional to perform necessary life-saving procedures before an ambulance arrives. According to the American Heart Association, the AED uses voice prompts, lights and text to tell the rescuer the steps to take.
Publicly accessible AEDs are usually stored in brightly colored cases and placed in open areas of buildings. The American Heart Association explains that AEDs are the greatest advancement in publicly accessed treatment for cardiac arrest since CPR. AEDs save lives!
Our Lady of the Wayside has four AED located on our campus:
- The foyer between the Church and the Gathering Place
- The Father Mackin Center/gym
- Outside the Elementary School Office
- By the front desk in the Parish Center
Bystander CPR Training was offered in September last year. Illinois Heart Rescue instructor taught parishioners CPR basics and how to properly use an AED. To watch the video, CLICK HERE.
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