An automatic external defibrillator (AED) uses a jolt of electricity to restore the rhythm of someone with a life-threatening irregular heartbeat. If you’re a business owner or manager who’s serious about the health of your employees, your office should make access to an AED and AED training a priority. Here’s why.

Benefits of AED Training

Cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death in the United States. Every year, about 475,000 people die from cardiac arrest. Cessation of the heartbeat is often sudden and life-threatening. Every minute without treatment increases the odds the victim will succumb. It’s vital, therefore, to call an ambulance the moment you realize what’s happening and to take action on the victim’s behalf while you wait for emergency responders to arrive. If employees are trained to handle cardiac emergencies, the more likely a cardiac arrest victim may survive.  

Using an AED to restore a heartbeat doesn’t guarantee you’ll save a victim’s life, but it always improves their chances of survival especially if you begin treatment within three minutes of an attack. With AED training, your employees will know how to respond and when administering a shock will be more harmful than helpful. 

How to Incorporate AED Equipment & Training Into an Office Environment 

Consider the size and layout of your office. An AED should be within easy reach no matter where a cardiac arrest may occur. Confer with your AED training provider. You may need more than one device. 

Employees should receive AED training from certified medical professionals. Training with an AED often also includes cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid training. Many providers recommend training courses be repeated every two years to keep employees up-to-date with techniques and applicable legal requirements. 

 
For superior AED training and equipment in Greater Cincinnati, contact Northern KY Emergency Medical Services in Cincinnati, OH. They’ve shown training participants how to save lines for more than 50 years and are confident they’ll enhance your emergency preparedness. Passionate about their work, they strive for relevance and affordability. To schedule a class or learn about their other services, call (859) 572-4511, and go online to learn more about AED and CPR training classes and schedules.