Skagit County Medic One encourages use, registration of automatic external defibrillators
When someone suffers cardiac arrest, the difference between the victim living and dying depends on many factors. One of which is how quickly they receive CPR and treatment with an automatic external defibrillator (AED).
Nearly 200,000 Americans each year die from sudden cardiac arrest. Along with CPR, use of an AED can increase the victim’s chance of survival. An AED is a device about the size of a laptop computer that analyzes the heart’s rhythm for abnormalities and, if necessary, directs rescuers to deliver an electrical shock to the victim. The shock, called defibrillation, may help the heart to restart and function effectively on its own.
Once found only on emergency aid vehicles, AEDs have become commonplace in communities. They are located at malls, airports, casinos and other locations where people congregate. AEDs increasingly are becoming within financial reach of many people and small businesses, costing as little as $1,150 at some locations.
Skagit County Medic One recognizes the importance of the community’s role in saving people who have suffered cardiac arrest. Skagit County Medic One encourages residents to receive training in CPR and AED usage. Individuals and businesses that acquire AEDs are encouraged to follow state law governing their use. RCW 70.54.310 states that those that acquire an AED should receive medical direction from a licensed physician in its use. They also are to contact the local emergency medical services organization (In Skagit County it is Skagit County Medic One) about the AED’s existence and location. The organization then will notify 911 services about the location of the AED so that dispatchers can direct callers to the device when emergencies arise.
Those who use AEDs in emergencies are immune from civil liability provided that the user doesn’t engage in gross negligence or misconduct.
