You've probably seen them mounted on walls in offices, schools, and public buildings, but do you really know what they're for? They're called automated external defibrillators, or AEDs — sophisticated medical devices that just about anyone can use to provide lifesaving assistance to people in cardiac arrest.
According to the American Red Cross, sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, with more than 350,000 cases each year. Defibrillation is the only way to restore regular heart rhythm, and readily accessible AED devices allow laypersons to intervene and buy time until first responders arrive. And during cardiac arrest, that extra time matters — each minute without defibrillation reduces the odds of survival by about 10 percent.
How AEDs work
According to AED manufacturer Avive, AEDs consist of adhesive electrode pads that read the patient's heart rhythm and deliver controlled electric shocks if necessary, a processor to analyze heart rhythm data and determine if and when electric shocks are appropriate. There are several FDA-approved models on the market, and all of them provide voice and visual instructions to guide users through the process. While CPR/AED certification can be very helpful and make you feel more confident during an emergency, they are not required to use an AED.
How to get an AED
All fifty states require AEDs in certain public gathering places, though the specific regulations vary by jurisdiction. But even in spaces where AEDs are not required — which often includes churches, private clubs, businesses, and residential areas — they can still be installed and used to provide lifesaving assistance.
FDA-approved AEDs can be purchased through a number of manufacturers and organizations, and generally have a base cost between $1,000 and $3,000, plus extra for any accessories. Individuals can generally purchase devices with pre-tax HSA dollars, and businesses can write off the cost as a business expense. Individuals, churches, nonprofit organizations and schools may also be able to fully or partially fund the purchase of AEDs with grants through a variety of charitable organizations and government programs.
If you purchase an AED individually or for an organization, make sure to account for maintenance costs. Prices and support can vary by vendor.
