By Cindy Granier
An automated external defibrillator has been installed on the first floor of the E. Cullen building. The AED unit is in a white cabinet adhered to the side of the security desk facing the elevators.
The AED unit is a device about the size of an old thick laptop computer. It is used when emergencies arise to analyze the heart's rhythm for any abnormalities and, if necessary, direct the rescuer to deliver an electrical shock to the victim. This shock, called defibrillation, may help the heart to reestablish an effective rhythm of its own.
When using the defibrillator during a medical emergency, expect an alarm on the cabinet door to go off when it is opened. The alarm will alert others it is in use.
There are now two AED units installed throughout the E. Cullen building. The other one is on the second floor at the southern end of the hall. There are 78 AED units installed throughout the campus. Another 12 are assigned to the University of Houston Police Department. Each patrol vehicle operated by UHPD is equipped with a defibrillator. They are inspected bi-annually to ensure they are in proper operational order.
Anyone with questions regarding this equipment should contact Corporal Anita Couch at amcouch@uh.edu.