Defibrillators, as you may have seen in countless films or TV series, can be the difference-maker between life and death in the event of cardiac arrest. In order to help people be less reliant on emergency services when these moments strike, defibrillators have become far more commonplace in public spaces, yet the public remains apprehensive when it comes to using them.
Part of this undoubtedly stems from a lack of training. Being handed shock-administering devices out of nowhere can be overwhelming and cause people to fear what may go wrong. To clear up doubts, here are some FAQs on defibrillators, and their answers.
What do they actually do?
Defibrillators administer an electric shock directly to the heart, with the intention of restoring the usual rhythm. They’re designed to be used by professionals and laypeople alike, by monitoring the patient’s pulse before advising when to deliver shocks.
Can anyone use them?
Yes! Defibrillators are specifically designed to be intuitive so that anyone can be a lifesaver in the event of cardiac arrest.
Of course, you may be swifter and more confident if you’ve used them before. You can practice through emergency first aid training courses, such as those found at www.tidaltraining.co.uk/emergency-first-aid-training-courses/, in order to build your confidence.
Will I get in trouble for using them wrong?
If you fail to save someone’s life, you’re protected by law when trying to help in an emergency. It’s incredibly unlikely that you’ll cause a death, but general misuse of equipment, such as outside emergencies, could get you in trouble.
Where are they installed?
You’ll typically find defibrillators in high-traffic areas, such as near schools, offices, and train stations. They are clearly signposted with high visibility and are regularly checked.
Do they work on children?
Yes! In ideal circumstances, you’d use paediatric pads for children under the age of eight, but in emergencies, adult pads are absolutely fine.
How can I learn more about using them?
As mentioned earlier, training courses are your best bet, giving you hands-on experience. Other than that, reading up on them and watching videos can help prepare you.
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