AED’s are one of the first tools a paramedic will use when treating a victim of cardiac arrest. In light of this the science behind them was simplified and transferred from the professional domain into the hands of the public. This means that any person in a public location can grab the machine and treat a heart attack victim whilst awaiting the arrival of the emergency services. This is crucial as for every minute that passes without an AED the casualty’s chance of survival drops by 10%.
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Currently there is no law requiring individuals to have training to use the machines, but this could soon change. Currently individuals are being charged separately to learn how to use the machines. Train aid Ltd has decided to set a precedent by offering the training free on their first aid at work courses, and hopes this will involve more candidates, and potentially save more lives. One of their leading instructors (Billy Casserley) was able to give his thoughts on the matter:
“The AED is the only known way of treating a cardiac arrest victim yet not enough people know how to use them. In fact not many people even know they exist despite being present at all major tube stations, airports and shopping malls. The time has come to get more people trained, which will ultimately save more lives”.
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In the future it is likely that AED training will become part of the 3 day first aid course syllabus. However in the meantime Train Aid is prepared to lead the way and offer the training completely free of charge.
