Public Access Defibrillation program can save lives Published Feb. 11, 2011 By Tech. Sgt. Luis Contreras 99th Medical Group NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- Recent events here have reiterated the importance of the availability and access of automated external defibrillators as well as cardiopulmonary resuscitation trained responders. Early CPR is an integral part of providing lifesaving aid to individuals suffering from sudden cardiac arrest. John Hopkins University conducted a study which indicated when individuals, who are trained in CPR and are equipped to utilize automated external defibrillators, acted before emergency medical system personnel arrived, there were increased victim survival rates. An AED is a computerized medical device capable of checking an unresponsive person's heart rhythm and determining if that rhythm requires a shock. An AED is considered a public access defibrillator when it is made available to the public for use in a non-medical facility. Public access does not mean that any member of the public should use an AED; only trained individuals should do so. Within the 99th Air Base Wing, numerous people are designated as targeted responders. These trained individuals have authorization to use the on-base AEDs in an attempt to revive victims of sudden cardiac arrest prior to the arrival of first-responder emergency personnel. These targeted responders are part of a PAD program which trains its members to recognize emergencies, activate emergency medical services and provide CPR or defibrillation, which are the most important steps anyone can take when faced with a sudden emergency. During a cardiac arrest, time is precious; waiting on an ambulance to arrive in order to begin to use an AED will not contribute to the survival advantage of the victim. That is why CPR/AED training provided by PAD programs is of the utmost importance. The following are some frequently asked questions: Can anyone purchase an AED? No, units should first have a Risk and Vulnerability Assessment performed to determine the need for a PAD program. All AEDs must be procured through the 99th Medical Group by contacting the 99 MDG PAD program coordinator and requesting approval to purchase an AED. AEDs will be purchased with the requesting unit's funds. Units that purchase, maintain and utilize unapproved AEDs may not be protected from litigation. Who has the authority to approve the purchases of AEDs? The 99 MDG has the responsibility to ensure all designated responders are properly trained and the AED is properly maintained. The 99 MDG PAD program coordinator will assist units in the establishment, development and maintenance of an emergency response plan for their PAD programs. Who is responsible for the AEDs in the unit? Unit commanders must appoint, in writing, a site program coordinator and targeted responders. The site program coordinator and targeted responders should be trained to recognize the signs of a sudden cardiac arrest, to know when to activate the EMS system and to know how to perform CPR. The site coordinators will be responsible for their PAD programs' AEDs and all associated equipment required to maintain their programs. Specific instructions and guidelines must be followed to ensure the proper use, maintenance and safety. The 99 MDG will have quality oversight of the program on behalf of the 99 ABW commander. Pending 99 ABW instructions will provide the governing roles and responsibilities of the PAD program and its AEDs. How much does an AED cost? The price of an AED varies by make and model. On average, AEDs cost between $1,500 and $2,000 each. The start-up of a PAD program can cost up to $4,000. Units are required to fund the start-up and on-going costs to maintain their individual PAD programs. What steps should an organization take to buy an AED? Procurement of all PAD program AEDs must be approved by the 99 MDG through its equipment review authorization activity meeting. The medical logistics flight will determine the AED model and type, as well as ensure the procuring unit is aware of all procedures to purchase and maintain the AED along with the associated supplies and equipment. When AEDs are placed in a facility, those units (including mission partners and Reserve units) must adhere to the 99 ABW PAD program instructions. Where are current PAD AEDs located on base? Currently there are 18 PAD program AEDs at Nellis to include AEDs located at the Base Exchange, commissary, fitness center and Runner's World. The 99 MDG PAD program is working on deploying an additional 17 AEDs to new locations. How does one get trained on CPR/AEDs? Active duty members can contact their unit AED program coordinator or the 99 MDG PAD program coordinator to schedule training. Civilians can contact the Red Cross to inquire about training. For further questions or information, please email the PAD program coordinator at cheryl.hulsman@nellis.af.mil or refer to the pending NELLIS AFB INSTRUCTION 44-164.
