Nowadays, it's common to see AED devices in workplaces and public facilities. The wide availability of these devices is leading people to become interested in learning more about them.
What Is an AED?
AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is a device that helps patients who are experiencing sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), which occurs when the heart abruptly stops beating. Without a healthy heartbeat, SCA restricts blood circulation to vital organs, including the brain, and causes death within minutes.
The best chance a person has for surviving a cardiac arrest is to receive an immediate and effective shock from an AED to get the heart pumping again. The sooner the heart begins to pump on its own, the greater the patient's chances of survival and having a healthy long-term result.
Although these devices are designed to be user-friendly, first responders and healthcare personnel must be skilled in utilising them to deliver the best care in an emergency.
The Importance of Proper AED Training
AED trainers are used during training to imitate the operation of real AEDs. This enables healthcare providers and first responders to practice using the gadget without jeopardising patient safety. A defibrillator trainer is intended to simulate various scenarios and teach trainees how to properly use the device. This, in turn, allows medical practitioners to build trust and familiarity with the device, potentially enhancing the chances of survival for SCA patients.
In SCA emergency case, time is critical. If defibrillation is not delivered within 5 minutes of a SCA, the chances of patient survival reduce to 50%. After 12 minutes, this number reduces to 2% - 5%. That said, rescuers must have the ability and confidence to combine AED and CPR techniques in a timely and effective manner to save the patient. These skills and confidence can be gained through AED training.
When learning a life-saving skill such as AED and CPR, having reliable AED trainers is critical to ensuring a successful experience. Each emergency is unique, and victims may have varying demands. This makes the manikin that students practice with a valuable addition to the information they gain during the training course.
AED practice trainer devices look and operate just like real AEDs, however they do not generate a shock. Unlike their real counterparts, they run on regular batteries and come with reusable training electrodes. Here are some of the most common models used in AED training.
AED Trainer - IPAD SP1
This trainer is one of the best options for getting individuals prepared to perform in cardiac emergencies. It has been designed to be as simple and intuitive as possible, with clear instructions and user-friendly controls. With its sturdy construction and simple instructions, the SP1 helps save valuable time in a rescue when every second counts.
During operation, the SP1 guides the user with soothing voice prompts and comprehensive, clear instructions that light up to indicate critical tasks. Every step includes instructions, and the voice prompts, which automatically adjust to background noise, are very useful. This is especially important in noisy environments and in situations where abrupt cardiac arrest may happen.
If a defibrillator is required for AED practice on children, the SP1 includes pre-attached dual electrode pads that can be used on both adults and children. By lifting the protective cover, the device can be switched to pediatric mode. This again helps to save valuable time and stress in an emergency.
AED Trainer with Basic Buddy CPR Manikin
The Basic Buddy Manikin is a dramatic, realistic, and reasonably priced trainer that allows for efficient and precise training using apps and a sensor kit. The student and instruction apps offer real-time feedback and include adult competencies, as well as a realistic interface.
All it takes is a simple push of a button to initiate the series of events that will teach students the proper measures to take in both "shock" and "no shock" scenarios. The instructor can choose between four training scenarios for manual and hands-free teaching. After selecting a scenario, the trainer will guide the learner through the right actions and replies.
The manikin allows individual students or groups to practice life-saving CPR methods. It can be cleaned using a one-piece, disposable lung/mouth protection device, which eliminates the possibility of cross-contamination and the necessity for sanitisation after each usage. The airway is opened with the head tilt/chin lift technique, and there is a visible chest rise when ventilated. The xiphoid process provides an anatomical reference point for hand positioning and compressions.
Brayden Advanced CPR Manikin + AED Trainer
The Brayden LED CPR Manikin is an innovation in the field of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This CPR manikin allows students to see the effectiveness of their CPR in real-time by displaying a series of lights that represent blood flow while they execute compressions.
During CPR, the manikin visually displays blood flow from the heart to the brain using indicator lights. This enables students to learn how to perform appropriate and accurate CPR in an emergency, as well as to recall the ultimate aim and critical importance of performing correct and proper CPR.
The primary goal of CPR is to keep oxygenated blood flowing to the brain following a cardiac arrest, preventing major brain damage and "buying time" for the patient until specialists arrive or a defibrillator is available. Three indicator lights inform students and instructors whether processes are being followed appropriately.
- Chest Compression Indicator Lights - Lights that indicate how much blood is being circulated by chest compressions. This volume varies according to the depth of compression. Only when the compression depth exceeds 5cm the lights will completely glow.
- Blood Circulation Indicator Lights - These light up to show the flow of blood from the heart to the brain. The rate of blood flow varies according to the depth and speed of compressions. To completely illuminate these lights, the compression rate must be more than 100 per minute.
- CPR Quality Indicator Light - This light indicates that blood has reached the brain. This will only be completely lit if the compression depth and speed are correct.
