Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a serious medical condition in which the heart abruptly stops pumping blood. Blood flow to the brain and other vital organs ceases within seconds. SCA usually results in death if not treated immediately.

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is one of the leading causes of death in the world, afflicting more than 350,000 people and 1 in 300 youth has an undetected heart condition that puts them at risk. The American Heart Association estimates that increased access to AEDs could save 50,000 lives each year.

An AED, or Automated External Defibrillator, is a portable device that checks the heart rhythm of someone in sudden cardiac arrest and delivers an electric shock if needed to restore a normal rhythm.

Early defibrillation is crucial for surviving sudden cardiac arrest. Having an AED readily available in public places or workplaces can significantly increase the chances of survival. The numbers don't lie and if a cardiac arrest victim is defibrillated within the first 3 minutes from collapse they have a 70% chance of survival.  AEDs have been approved for use by first responders around the world for over three decades.  It is believed that over 3 million lives have been saved.

Anyone capable of following instructions is capable of using an AED. Upon opening, it will provide detailed instructions for its use. They are designed to be as easy to use as possible.

Even though many people believe that high-quality CPR can only be administered by first responders or emergency medical services professionals, it should be attempted by any bystander that is physically able to provide compressions. In fact, modern AEDs coach an untrained bystander through CPR including coaching on the frequency and depth of the CPR compressions. The technology is amazing and has advanced exponentially in the last 10 years.

The FDA has found all AEDs available in the U.S. market to be safe and effective. The AED scans the victim's heart rhythm and will not advise a shock unless it will be beneficial. As long as the AEDs voice prompts are followed, bystanders cannot get shocked. AED's have been used for decades and are extremely safe and effective. According to just one study, "Cardiac arrest victims who received a shock from a publicly-available AED that was administered by a bystander had 2.62 times higher odds of survival to hospital discharge and 2.73 times more favorable outcomes for functioning compared to victims who first received an AED shock after emergency responders arrived."

What about liability? Most states have Good Samaritan laws that protect people who use an AED in good faith to help someone in cardiac arrest. Liability can arise if there's negligence in maintaining the AED.

Ease of Use:  An AED is designed to be used by anyone in an emergency, even by those with no prior medical training. The AED should have clear and concise instructions, both visual and auditory, that guide the user through the steps of using the device.

Cost: AEDs can range in price from around $1,000 to $3,000. While cost is certainly a factor to consider, it should not be the most important factor. The most important factor is choosing an AED that is right for your needs.

Do I need Pediatric Pads: AED pediatric pads are specially designed for use on infants and children. They are recommended for children up to 8 years old or 55 lbs

Different AED models offer various pediatric options, ensuring rescuers can effectively use the device on young patients. Some AED models provide separate pediatric pads, while others offer opportunities for universal pads that can be used on both adults and children. 

The Physio-Control LIFEPAK CR2 and the ZOLL AED 3 both have pediatric settings to administer a pediatric shock level automatically. These devices feature a “Child Button” that can be clicked to switch between adult and child mode.

The Philips HeartStart FRx AED uses a non-expirable pediatric key that adjusts the shock level on adult pads. This AED requires rescuers to do nothing more than attach the key to the front of the AED and stand clear as the device analyzes the victim’s heart rhythm and detects a shockable rhythm.

These money-saving AEDs allow owners to only have one recurring purchase of adult AED pads instead of both pediatric and adult pads. These defibrillators automatically adjusts the shock strength and adapts the Life Guidance to provide pad placement and CPR instructions appropriate for children—all without the need for different pads.

Environment: Consider where the AED will be placed. If it will be in a harsh environment, such as a construction site or poolside, you will need an AED that is water-resistant and dustproof.

What are the ongoing costs of AED ownership: You'll need to factor in replacement pads and batteries.  AED batteries and pads typically last anywhere from two to five years in standby mode.

How will I know when my pads and battery need to be replaced: AED First Response offers a Free AED Program Management which provides you with email reminders of expiration dates for the life of your AED to ensure it is always ready to save a life.

Where do I get replacements: When your AED pads or battery expires, you can always purchase a replacement from AED First Response. Here is our full library of replacement pads and batteries available for purchase.

Do I need training to use an AED: AEDs are designed for use by bystanders with minimal training. However, taking a CPR/AED course is highly recommended to ensure proper use in an emergency.