What is an AED?
The acronym AED stands for Automated External Defibrillator. It is used when an individual is experiencing a cardiac arrest. It is a small and lightweight device that delivers an electric shock through the chest and to the heart. It can be found inside an AED cabinet, typically along the main hallways.
Why do we have AEDs on campus?
Each year, over 300,000 people experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital. (
AHA) Cardiac arrest can be fatal, but using an AED can help those experiencing fibrillation when waiting for emergency services to arrive.
What does it look like?
Your AED is stored in a cabinet that looks similar to this:
Figure 1 This is a Cardiac Science G3 AED located in the Isabel C. Cameron building in the front hallway of the daycare.
Figure 2 This is a ZOLL Plus AED in Stephen Power Farish Hall on the second floor near the elevators.
What is in my AED Cabinet?
Inside your AED cabinet, you will find an alarm and a case containing the AED. The case holds the AED and additional necessary equipment for easy transportation. The “additional necessary equipment” can include extra adult AED pads, pediatric AED pads, a CPR face shield, scissors/shears, gauze pads/small towel, gloves, and a razor.
Who can use an AED?
AEDs are designed to allow anyone to use them. AEDs are simple and designed to be easy to use for the general public. Good Samaritan laws protect individuals who in good faith administer emergency care using an AED. Do not be afraid to use an AED when necessary. All AED cabinets are unlocked and available for public use. If you would like to know more about how to use an AED, visit our Courses on Campus page to find out how you can be trained to use an AED.
How do I operate an AED?
Operating an AED is easy. Simply, follow the voice instructions and images printed on the AED. Although training is not required to use an AED, it is recommended. View the video links below for more information on how to operate the AEDs on campus.
If you would like to know more about how to use an AED, visit our Courses on Campus page to find out how you can be trained to use an AED.
ZOLL AED 3
ZOLL AED Plus
Powerheart G5 AED
If the person is not in cardiac arrest, will I hurt them?
No, you will not hurt someone who is not in cardiac arrest. Before applying a shock, the AED will read the heart rhythm of the person. If the AED determines their heart is in cardiac arrest, the AED will shock the person. Be sure to stand clear of the AED when a shock is applied. The AED will not shock if the person is not cardiac arrest, so do not be afraid to use an AED when necessary.
Will the AED deliver a shock to me?
If used properly, the AED will not deliver a shock to the AED user. To avoid shocking yourself with using an AED, follow the voice instructions and images printed on the AED.
When can I use an AED?
AEDs should be used on individuals suspected of being in cardiac arrest.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 or 713-743-3333. If you would like to know more about or how to use an AED, visit our Courses on Campus page to find out how you can be trained to use an AED.
Where can I find the closest AED to me?
The closest AED to you can be found on our AED map. Use this map to locate the closest AED to your classroom/lecture hall, office space, dormitory, event center, etc.
How do I open the AED cabinet?
The AED cabinet is always unlocked and ready for use. In case of an emergency, simply pull the cabinet door to open – you do not need a key to open the cabinet door.
How do I get certified in CPR/AED?
Visit our Courses on Campus page for training on CPR/AED.
I heard AEDs are difficult to use. Is that true?
No,
AEDs are easy to use. AEDs are designed to be used by the general public and are simple to operate. Simply, follow the voice instructions and images printed on the AED. Although training is not required to use an AED, it is recommended. View the video links below for more information on how to operate the AEDs on campus.
If you would like to know more about how to use an AED, visit our Courses on Campus page to find out how you can be trained to use an AED.
ZOLL AED 3
ZOLL AED Plus
Powerheart G5 AED