FAQ
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
SCA is a sudden and unexpected abnormality of the heart’s electrical system which causes the heart to stop beating normally. When one occurs, blood stops flowing properly and the person collapses. The only way to restore their heart rhythm is by administering a shock immediately. Anyone can deliver the shock using an AED.
No. A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when the heart’s blood supply is reduced or blocked. The heart muscle becomes injured or may start to die. During a heart attack, the victim is conscious. In fact, the victim may complain about symptoms.
An SCA is an electrical problem in the heart which causes the heart to beat in an irregular, inefficient manner. Since the blood can’t circulate to the brain, the victim passes out.
A heart attack victim has a pulse but an SCA victim does not.
You don’t have to remember these distinctions. When the AED instructs you to put the pads on the victim, it will sense the heart rhythm and determine the best steps to take, giving you guidance all along the way.
Defibrillation is giving an electric shock to the heart. The shock resets the heart’s electrical system and allows a normal heart rhythm to return.
An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a device that delivers that shock. It analyzes the heart rhythm and if necessary, provides instructions on how to deliver it.
If a person collapses or loses consciousness, and either doesn’t have a pulse or isn’t breathing properly, you need to intervene. Even if he or she is gasping for breath or having seizures, if the person is unconscious, use the AED.
Don’t worry about diagnosing the victim correctly. The Philips AED will analyze the heart rhythm and tell you to deliver a shock, if and only if the victim needs it. All you need to do is open the AED and follow the clear, calm voice instructions. You’ll be told how put the pads on the victim so the machine can detect the heart rhythm..
Philips AEDs are designed to be very simple to use. Once you open the AED, a clear, calm voice walks you through the entire rescue process as you do it—at your own pace. The device can tell what step you’re on and will adjust its instructions accordingly.
The most important thing you need to do is act. If there is an AED nearby, find it and open it. The heart needs to be restored to a normal rhythm within 3 – 5 minutes for the best chance of survival.
No, not if you follow the instructions from the AED. AEDs are designed to help people whose hearts have stopped working effectively. If the AED instructs you to deliver a shock, the person you are helping is already clinically dead. Your actions can only help. You may be able to restore a healthy heart rhythm.
The AED is designed to tell you exactly what you need to do. It keeps pace with what you are doing and adapts its instructions so that it doesn’t overwhelm, run ahead, or slow you down. If necessary, it will repeat the prompts, rephrasing them or adding additional instruction to help you understand.
Not if you follow the instructions. The device will tell you the basic precautions you must take to avoid getting shocked.
The best chance to survive a sudden cardiac arrest is if the person is shocked within 3 – 5 minutes. Often, emergency responders can’t arrive within that small time frame.
We will walk you through everything you need to know. Philips AEDs are designed so that anyone can use them immediately. However, training is still a good idea. The more familiar you are with the signs of a SCA and the use of the AED, the more likely you are to be calm and helpful in an actual emergency.
Cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is one way to help a victim of SCA. It uses chest compressions and may include rescue breathing.
Both cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and AEDs have a role in saving lives. Performing either is better than doing nothing. Using both CPR and an AED gives the victim an even greater chance of survival.
There are a number of national organizations that have CPR and AED training. Contact them to find what is available.
Liability is a valid concern for program administrators and potential rescuers.
Automated external defibrillators are designed to be safe and very easy to use. Additionally, if a person in cardiac arrest is not treated quickly with a defibrillator, it is unlikely that they will survive.
MyAED recommends that you understand your local laws and consult with your legal counsel regarding specific laws or regulations in your area.
Owning an AED
Philips AEDs are self-monitoring. They perform regular self-tests to make sure that everything is working.
However, there are 2 parts that need regular replacement—the pads and the battery. The device has reminder lights to help you remember. In addition, each AED comes with a sticker reminder system.
Anyone can own an AED. For help or If you would like a MyAED representative to contact you, click and submit the form or call toll free 833-866-9233.