What is an AED?

An AED, or Automated External Defibrillator, is a portable and easy-to-use device designed to analyze the heart’s cardiac rhythm and administer a dose of electricity if needed to victims suffering from sudden cardiac arrest. AEDs have been proven to increase the survival rate of victims of sudden cardiac arrest up to 90%.

Is an AED safe to use?

Yes. They are also user-friendly. Voice prompts tell you what to do and it will not administer a shock unless the victim needs one.

Who manufactures AEDs?

There are 4 major manufacturers: Medtronic Physio-Control, which is used by DC Fire and EMS and MPD, Cardiac Science, Phillips (formerly Laerdal), and Zoll.

How much do AEDs cost?

AEDs cost about $2,500 to $3,500, depending on the device.

What certification do I need?

Organizations that teach CPR/AED courses prefer not to use “certify”; they use the term “training was certified”.

Why are Public Access to Defibrillation Programs needed?

Only 5-10% of those who suffer sudden cardiac arrest survive. Time is critical; survival rates decrease 7-10% with every minute that treatment is delayed. CPR is not enough; immediate defibrillation is the most effective treatment within the first few minutes of arrest.

How long does certification last?

At a minimum, individuals should complete or review CPR/AED training every two years. The physician providing medical oversight may want members to complete or review training more frequently.

Who conducts training for AED use?

Usually the same people who conduct CPR Training. Some CPR training is available through the DC Fire and EMS Training Academy.

How many are located in the District now?

Hundreds, in every area of the city.

How does DC Fire and EMS use AEDs?

All first responders in DC Fire and EMS are trained to use AEDs. They are carried on all the medical response apparatus units.

Who is trained on them within DC Fire and EMS?

All field medical providers in DC Fire and EMS.

How many people in DC Fire and EMS are trained to use AEDs?

Approximately 1,200 department personnel.

Is maintaining an AED difficult or time-consuming?

Most AEDs complete a self-test daily. In addition to completing the self-test, most units have visible and audible alarms to notify you of any system failure, including low battery alerts. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines. Additional service contracts are usually available from the manufacturer or your sales representative.

What must an AED “Deployment Plan” include?

• Early activation of the local EMS System.
• Do not delay dialing 911.
• Ensure all employees know the location of the nearest AED in your facility.
• Have a group of employees trained to act as lay rescuers. Lay rescuers should be prepared to communicate with EMS personnel on the scene, assist EMS personnel in gaining access to the patient, and informing them of events prior to their arrival.

If I buy an AED, where should I place it?

• Locations where people congregate.
• Locations that are frequently traveled by employees during the course of a day.
• Locations that are always occupied while your facility is open.

What is the purpose of the DC Heart Safe Community Program?

• Increase awareness of AED Public Access Programs by highlighting the benefits of early defibrillation.
• Promote healthy life styles, proper diet, and exercise.
• Promote training in CPR and the use of AEDs.
• Advocate the placement of AEDs in places where people congregate, work, and play.

What does the Public Access to Automated External Defibrillator Act of 2000 require of DC Fire and EMS?

The Public Access to Automated External Defibrillator Act of 2000 requires DC Fire/EMS to establish processes and procedures to register Public Access to Defibrillator Programs and become the repository of all pertinent data about AED use in the District.

What is the process for putting one in a public building?

AEDs are FDA Class III Medical Devices so their sale and distribution are monitored. The Public Access to Early Defibrillator Programs Act requires the following:

• Each program member that expects to use AEDs must successfully complete a training course in CPR and AED use offered by the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or an equivalent state or nationally-recognized organization. Successful completion must be certified by the organization that conducted the training.
• The facility purchasing and using the AED must ensure that it is maintained, tested, and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s user and maintenance instructions. Written records of maintenance and testing must be maintained by the facility.
• Each program must have medical oversight by a DC-licensed physician.  The physician will oversee all aspects of the program including training, coordination with DC Fire and EMS, protocol approval, AED deployment strategies, and equipment maintenance.  In addition, the physician shall review each case in which the AED is used and send pertinent data to DC Fire and EMS.
• Finally, each program must be registered with the DC Fire and EMS. Applications and a $25 registration fee should be mailed to DC Fire and EMS Department.

DC Fire and EMS
Attention: CQI/Public Access to AED Program Manager
1923 Vermont Avenue NW, Suite 300
 Washington, DC 20001

Where do program members obtain CPR/AED training?

There are various organizations and agencies willing to train the public in CPR/AED. The American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, and other organizations provide training on a regular basis. The courses usually last 4-8 hours.

What maintenance do AEDs require?

Most AEDs complete a self-test daily. In addition to completing the self-test, most units have visible and audible alarms to notify you of any system failure, including a low battery alert. The manufacturers provide specific guidelines for their devices. Additional service contracts are usually available from the manufacturer or your sales representative