Increasing confidence in using an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
Minutes count when a person collapses in sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)and AED machines have been described as the ‘single most important development in the treatment of SCA’ (Resuscitation Council UK). You may have seen the green boxes appearing in various public spaces, i.e. shopping centres, petrol stations and they are continuing to be rolled out because along with CPR, using an AED can dramatically increase the chance of survival. Due to the increase in awareness of defibrillation, we want to ensure that anyone who attends our first aid courses has the chance to practice using an AED. You don’t need any training to be able to use onebut we want to help improve confidence and reduce the hesitance towards using them in an emergency situation. We asked one of our primary first aid trainers, Clare Khan, who delivers the course at least once a month for us, about how delegates have been getting on with using the defibrillators. Clare said: “AEDs are easy to use, compact, portable and very effective and knowing how and when to use a defibrillator, along with basic CPR, is a useful life skill for all. I’ve been using a Training AED for some time now and delegates are initially concerned as they believe that it’s complicated. However following training, delegates are surprised at the ease of using an AED, particularly the visual and verbal prompts that they feel are easy to understand and will prevent them from getting it wrong. After taking it in turns to practice, they say that they feel very confident and would now have no hesitation using one. The delegates are also surprised to learn that by being able to use an AED within the first 3 minutes of a SCA, the chance of survival increases to 80%. I believe passionately that everyone should have the skills and confidence to take action in an emergency and using an AED is one of those vital skills.” Other vital skills covered in our first aid courses include performing CPR on manikins, learning the Heimlich manoeuvre using choking vests and putting a willing volunteer in the recovery position. More of our trainers will be completing their first aid trainer training at the end of November and we will soon be able to provide courses in more areas across the country. Our contact details are below if you would like any more information. 0114 2472772, info@aspect-training.co.uk Aspect Training Ltd – www.aspect-training.co.uk
