CPR and AED Information

AEDs and CPR: “That’s How You Save a Life”

The Heart Rhythm Society advises the following actions in response to a potential SCA emergency:

Know the signs of SCA in order to react quickly. SCA strikes immediately and without warning. Victims will fall to the ground/collapse, become unresponsive and will not breathe normally, if at all
Call 911 as soon as possible
Start CPR as quickly as possible (note: hands-only CPR is proven to be just as effective — learn more about this easy technique)
Use an AED if one is available on site

It is essential it is for the public to take the initiative to use available Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) if they are available at the scene of a SCA. "The community doesn't truly recognize the importance of AEDs," said Richard L. Page, MD, FHRS, former President of the Heart Rhythm Society in a 2009 newspaper article.

"The AED may not save everyone and even if it's been awhile since you were trained, you should roll up your sleeves and apply the AED if you witness a cardiac arrest. That's how you save a life."

Dr. Page also highlighted changes in the administration of CPR that make it easier and still effective: "CPR is simpler than it ever was! You now basically push hard and push fast. You don't need to do the respirations anymore. For lay responders, just do the CPR."