Carrying out a successful CPR-AED program at your high school, university, church, or sporting event center is about more than purchasing automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and placing them at assorted locations on premise. It requires creating a small task force exclusively for the program to move forward with AED training and equipment selection. School-based task force members typically include those from the educational organization as well as the health care community.

Developing a CPR-AED Program Task Force: What You Need to Know

Task Force Members

Create a small task force featuring no more than six people to avoid wasting time debating how to implement the program, such as when and where AED training should take place. In addition to the task force coordinator, include a school administrator, medical director, and device coordinator to make a well-rounded team.

An emergency physician with experience in cardiac care as well as CRP and first aid training is a top pick for medical director. The device coordinator purchases and maintains AED equipment, while the school administrator obtains program funding and works with other school members who must be made aware of the program and related procedures, including the superintendent and PTA.

Coordinator Responsibilities

The task force coordinator implements and maintains the CPR-AED program; health and physical education staff members are among the usual candidates for the role. Coordinators assign responsibilities to task force members, oversee all related meetings, and work with school administrators and medical directors to devise a program budget. They also keep up with AED equipment to ensure efficient and safe device use and create events for showing both school staff and students on how to use the machines correctly.

Other task force coordinator responsibilities include keeping up with AED training staff members and helping them renew their CPR certification cards as needed. They also work with the medical director to create response systems in the event of an emergency.

Northern KY Emergency Medical Services Inc. has provided the northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati area with AED training, first aid certification, and other health training services for nearly 50 years. A nonprofit organization certified by the American Heart Association® and American Safety and Health Institute®, this outstanding training center also delivers and installs first aid kits at schools, churches, and businesses. AED training services always include CPR training. Call (859) 572-4511 to make an appointment today or visit the website for more information.