由 home-healthhaven 
As reported by the American Heart Association, about 95% of people experiencing cardiac arrest die before they reach the hospital. Your chances of survival dip by 7 to 10 percent every minute that passes without CPR. However, if a defibrillator is used within 5 to 7 minutes, the survival rate can be as high as 30-45 percent. That’s why having an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) program is so crucial. It ensures that defibrillators are nearby and that people are trained to use them during emergencies. An AED program includes strategic placement of AEDs, training employees, raising awareness, and routine maintenance of the devices.
### AED Placement
For AEDs to be most effective, they should be used to administer a shock within three to five minutes of the cardiac arrest. So, place them in accessible public areas like schools, sports arenas, airports—anywhere large groups gather. Ideal locations are high-traffic spots such as cafeterias, main entrances, prominent hallways, and areas where sports activities are common.
### AED Training Plans
Employees and anyone else who might need to use an AED should be trained in both CPR and how to use the defibrillator. Although AEDs are straightforward enough for non-medical people to use, training boosts confidence and effectiveness in an emergency. The American Red Cross offers CPR and AED training courses online and in person. For more details, you can call the nearest American Heart Association office at 1-888-CPRLINE or visit heart.org/cpr. It’s important to ensure employees train with the specific AED model available at their location.
### Raise Awareness & Maintain the Program
Once your AED program is up and running, educate your employees and promote the training sessions. Use signs and posters to make AEDs easily noticeable and to announce available training courses. Assign someone the responsibility of keeping the program updated; ensuring AEDs are maintained and new employees are trained. Routine maintenance and ongoing training will keep your AED program effective and reliable.
### Understanding AEDs
An AED is a portable device that delivers an electric shock to someone in cardiac arrest to help restore a regular heart rhythm. These devices are designed with simplicity in mind, making them user-friendly for first responders. Quick access is vital because a victim’s survival chances decrease by 7 to 10 percent each minute.
AEDs come with a built-in computer that assesses the victim’s heart rhythm. If a shock is necessary, voice commands guide the rescuer to press the shock button to deliver the shock. This shock temporarily stuns the heart, allowing it to regain a regular rhythm. For more information about AEDs, setting up an AED plan at your school or workplace, or training opportunities, visit Heart.org or talk to a healthcare professional.