AED Medical OverSight; AED Program, Medical Authorization for AED, Automated External Defibrillator; Medical Prescription, Medical Oversight

Implementing an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Program may seem like a challenging task, but it definitely doesn't have to be. With our 7 step guide to implementing an AED Program, any organization can successfully complete this task. Today, we will take a look at the fourth step in this process, “Obtain Medical Oversight”.

In today’s technologically advanced world, there are numerous items which we purchase with little or no knowledge of how to operate. So, in order to effectively utilize and/or navigate our new gadget, we must invest in a technical support plan.

Therefore, since most AED Program Coordinators do not have an extensive knowledge of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) or deploying an AED Program, having a technical support plan is a necessity. In our Industry, this technical support plan is referred to as “Medical Oversight”. Medical Oversight can either be obtained through a local Physician or a National Company who specializes in providing Medical Direction. In either case, your chosen Medical Director should provide the following:

• Signed Medical Prescription (FDA Requirement to purchase an AED)
• Site Analysis and AED Placement Recommendation
• Assistance with EMS Registration
• Review of Policy & Procedure Manual
• Review of Training Program
• Post Event Review & Feedback

Furthermore, your Medical Director should also be a sounding board and a mentor to the Program Coordinator.

HOW SHOULD YOU OBTAIN MEDICAL OVERSIGHT?

First and foremost, if you can find a local physician who has AED Program knowledge, this is your best option as you will have the ability to interface with him/her in person. Furthermore, a local Physician will have a tie to the community and a vested interest in the success of the program.

If you are unable to find a local Physician, contracting with a National Medical Oversight Company is the next best thing. Since their primary business is providing Medical Oversight, their physicians and support staff will have the latest information on laws, regulations and trends in the AED industry.

DO LAWS REQUIRE MEDICAL OVERSIGHT?

At the Federal Level, currently, there are no laws requiring Medical Oversight. However, there are certain states that do require it. To find out more about your state’s requirement, contact your local state legislature to obtain details about the requirements in regards to medical oversight.

WHAT IF I OPT NOT TO OBTAIN MEDICAL OVERSIGHT?

If your State does not require Medical Oversight, you are still obligated by the Food & Drug Administration’s Code of Federal Regulations Title 21 Section 801.109 to provide a signed medical authorization. A medical authorization is a physician prescription authorizing you to purchase an AED. If you do not have a physician to provide this form, there are numerous National Medical Direction Companies who can produce on your behalf. As you know, there is always an exception to every rule. In 2005, Philips Medical received clearance from the FDA to sell the Philips Onsite over the counter without a medical authorization. Currently, this is the AED on the market which can be obtained without a medical authorization.

ARE THERE LIABILITY ISSUES ASSOCIATED WITH NOT HAVING MEDICAL OVERSIGHT?

Federal & State Good Samaritan Laws protect individuals and organizations from liability if they do the following:

1. Notify local emergency response personnel or other appropriate entities of the most recent placement of the device within a reasonable period of time after the device was placed.
2. Properly maintain & test the device according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
3. Provide appropriate training to any employee who may be reasonably expected to use device.

As you can see, Good Samaritan Laws do not mention Medical Oversight as a requirement. However, having Medical Oversight will help to insure that the Good Samaritan Laws are accomplished!

Having deployed over 2000 AED Programs across the US, we have found that our most success programs have Medical Oversight. Why have they been more successful than those who have not? The answer is simple…knowledge is power and those who have employed Medical Directors have empowered themselves with the technical knowledge to be successful.

Contact HeartSafe America today to find out more about medical oversite and how to implement an AED Program for your organization. Heart Safe America’s goal is to educate the public about Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) and how AEDs can increase the survival rate.

AED State Laws & Regulations; Automated External Defbrillator, CASA Act, AED Laws, AED Program

Implementing an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Program may seem like a challenging task, but it definitely doesn't have to be. With our 7 step guide to implementing an AED Program, any organization can successfully complete this task. Today, we will take a look at the third step in this process, “Review State & Federal Laws”.

To have a successful AED Program, it is important for your organization, as well as your AED Program Coordinator, to understand the federal and state laws associated with owning an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).

In 2000, the Federal Government passed the Cardiac Arrest Survival Act (CASA) in an effort to bring awareness to Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) and improve the SCA survival rate of 5%. This Act required all federal buildings to install AEDs and extended Good Samaritan protection to anyone who renders aid (in good faith) to a victim during an emergency.

Click here to view more about the Cardiac Arrest Survival Act (CASA) of 2000.

Each state has its own law(s) that protect organizations who own AEDs. These laws typically mirror the Cardiac Arrest Survival Act of 2000 by extending liability protection to Good Samaritans.

Click here to view the AED laws for each state.
Click here to view the Good Samaritan laws for each state.

Furthermore, with an increase in SCA awareness and numerous studies validating public access defibrillation, many states have instituted laws requiring certain organizations/facilities to place AEDs on site. Lawmakers believe that Fitness Clubs, Athletic Complexes, Schools and Dental Offices are the most likely places for SCA to occur. Therefore, equipping these facilities has been made a top priority.

Click here to view AED requirements for your state.

Contact HeartSafe America today to find out more about the AED laws and how it can affect your organization. Heart Safe America’s goal is to educate the public about Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) and how AEDs can increase the survival rate.

AED Program Decision Makers; Purchasing AED, Automated External Defibrillator, AED Program

Implementing an AED Program may seem like a challenging task, but it definitely doesn't have to be. With the 7 step guide process of implementing an AED Program, any organization can successfully complete this task. The second step in this process is to gain decision maker's support.

When implementing an AED Program, gaining decision maker support is essential because without it, your program will go nowhere!

Therefore, before attempting to get Senior Management’s buy-in, you must do your homework and answer the questions that they will inevitably ask:

• What are the liability implications with an AED program?
• What is the upfront cost and long term cost of ownership of this program?
• What kind of ongoing training, maintenance and man power is involved with this type of program?

If you are able to provide clear answers supported by facts, gaining support for your AED Program will be easy. In an attempt to help you prepare, we have offered some resources below:

First, to address the liability concern for management you will need to educate them on the facts. This can be accomplished by researching OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Association) and their recommendations on their website. The OSHA website where you can find five supporting articles of information and recommendations on AED programs: http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/aed/index.html - These five supporting articles will allow you to pull specific data and statics on how an AED program, with the proper CPR/AED training can save lives.

These articles and the information they cover are below:

1. Automated External Defibrillators Can Save Lives During Cardiac Emergencies [1 MB PDF*, 2 pages]. OSHA Publication 3174, (2001). Stresses the need for AEDs in the workplace to save lives. States that AEDs are effective, easy to use, and relatively inexpensive.
2. Saving Sudden Cardiac Arrest Victims in the Workplace: Automated External Defibrillators. OSHA Publication 3185-09N, (2003). Also available as a 376 KB PDF, 4 pages. Provides information on the importance of readily-available AEDs, and encourages the installation of the devices in workplaces. Also includes a list of resources for more detailed guidance on the use of AEDs as well as how to obtain qualified training.
3. Cardiac Arrest and Automated External Defibrillators. OSHA Technical Information Bulletin (TIB), (2001, December 17). Also available as an 18 KB PDF, 4 pages. Provides an information resource to aid in decision-making about these devices at individual worksites. Informs employers about the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs), a life-saving technology, in the treatment of cardiac arrest at work.
4. Automated External Defibrillation in the Occupational Setting. American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM), (2006, May). Provides position statement of ACOEM urging placement of AEDs in selected workplaces, and guidelines for employer programs.
5. Saving a Life is As Easy as A-E-D. American Red Cross. Includes information on how AEDs work, training programs, and establishing an AED program at your facility.

All of these articles are great to help you illustrate how deploying an AED Program can potentially save a colleague’s life.

One final resource that may be of assistance in gaining the support and funds needed to implement an AED program is the “National Center for Early Defibrillation” - http://www.early-defib.org/ - Early defibrillation can increase the survival rate from less than 5% without and AED, up to 60% with an AED on site. Statistical data like this illustrates the enormous benefit of having an AED program.

The final component necessary to gain the support of Senior Management is finding a reputable company willing to offer your organization the proper AED equipment, training and maintenance at a reasonable cost. At HeartSafe America, Inc., we do just this. With access to 6 AED Manufacturers, a National Training Network and propriety Data Management Program,

HeartSafe America has successfully helped numerous Fortune 500 and Government Agencies gain top level support by offering a turn-key AED Solution at a very aggressive price point.

Contact HeartSafe America today to find out more about implementing an AED Program for your organization. HeartSafe America's goal is to educate the public about Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) and how AEDs can increase the survival rate.

AED Program Coordinator, AED Program, Implement AED Program, Purchase AED, Automated External Defibrillator

Implementing an AED Program may seem like a challenging task, but it definitely doesn't have to be. With the 7 step guide process of implementing an AED Program, any organization can successfully complete this task. The first step in this process is to select an AED Program Coordinator.

When implementing an AED Program, selecting a Program Coordinator is essential to its success. Therefore, it is imperative that your organization choose the best person for the job and clearly outlines his/her responsibilities.

Who chooses the Program Coordinator?

The person and/or persons assigned to starting the AED Program. This person should have some experience with deploying Automated External Defibrillator (AED) or comparable safety programs.

Example: Human Resources, Executive Management, Risk Management, etc.

Who is the ideal person to be Program Coordinator?

From organization to organization, the background and job responsibilities of the Program Coordinator may vary greatly. However, the ideal person should have some medical or safety experience and their job function should include maintaining the well being of the organization.

Example: Nurse, Risk Manager, Safety Director.

What are the responsibilities of the Program Coordinator?

• To make organization aware of Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and its location.
• Select Emergency Response Team and develop Response Plan.
• Review program with organization’s Medical Director.
• Register AED with local fire department.
• Be familiar with Local, State and National AED Laws/Regulations.
• Organize CPR/AED training for personnel, track renewal dates and schedule re-certifications.
• Perform monthly AED inspections and document results.
• Replace AED pads and batteries prior to their expiration or after use.
• Download post event data, review with Medical Director and debrief the individuals involved.

As you can see, the Program Coordinator has a large number of responsibilities and his/her success is directly related to the success of your AED Program. Therefore, selecting a Program Coordinator may be the single most important task in developing your program.

Contact HeartSafe America to find out more about implementing an AED Program and how we can help you implement your program. HeartSafe America's goal is to educate the public about Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) and how AEDs can increase the survival rate.

Zoll AED Plus AED; automated external defibrillator, purchase an AED, CPR

Purchasing an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can be a difficult decision with numerous manufacturers to choose from and numerous different features. Therefore, understanding the differences and capabilities of each AED is key to selecting the proper AED for your organization. Therefore, today, we will take a look at the Zoll AED Plus.

The most technologically advanced Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on the market today is the Zoll AED Plus. With “Real CPR Help”, the AED Plus provides feedback on compression rate and depth. This feedback helps responders to perform effective CPR at a rate of 100 compressions per minute with a depth of 1 ½ to 2 inches. As the American Heart Association (AHA) promotes “Compression Only” CPR, Zoll’s “Real CPR Help” is a great tool that no other AED on the market has!

Furthermore, the Zoll AED Plus strongly supports the American Heart Association’s Chain of Survival.

• Early Access (Call 9-1-1)
• Early CPR
• Early Defibrillation
• Early Advanced Care

With clear pictures to act as road map for resuscitation, the AED Plus prompts the responder to check responsiveness, call 9-1-1, perform CPR, defibrillate (if needed) and continue to treat a Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) victim until Advanced Care arrives.

In addition to “Real CPR Help” and “Clear Pictures”, the Zoll AED Plus has many other highly effective features which make it ideal for any organization to deploy:

• One Piece Pad: Zoll’s CPR-D Padz is a one piece, pre-connected pair of electrodes which is much easier and quicker to use than two sets of pads. Furthermore, the CPR-D Padz has the longest life of any pad on the market with a 4.5 year expiration.
• Rectilinear Biphasic Waveform: Only biphasic waveform cleared by the FDA to be labeled as clinically superior to monophasic waveforms for the conversion of ventricular fibrillation in high-impedance patients.
• Escalating Energy: If Shock #1 one does not convert the heart at 120 Joules, the device will escalate to 150 Joules for Shock #2. If 3rd Shock is needed, the Zoll AED Plus will increase once again to 200 Joules and deliver its highest energy shock.
• High Durability Rating: With an ingress protection rating of IP55, the Zoll AED Plus has a high resistance to dust & water. Therefore, the AED Plus can be taken virtually anywhere and is ideal for Athletic, Marine and Manufacturing Settings.
• Consumer Batteries: The Zoll AED Plus is the only AED to use consumer batteries which can be purchased from most retailers. Using lithium camera batteries to power itself, Zoll has made replacing batteries convenient and cost effective.
• Useful Cover: Zoll has designed the AED Plus’s cover to be used as a wedge to open the airway. By placing the cover under the victim’s shoulder blades, the body is elevated slightly causing the head to tilt back and the victim’s airway to open.

It is Zoll’s belief that when a victim falls unconscious that a shock will only be needed 50% of the time. However, high quality CPR will be needed 100%. Therefore, Zoll has designed the AED Plus to do what no the AED does, provide CPR coaching and feedback to responders in order to increase effectiveness and maximize positive outcomes.

In designing a simple device which anyone can use, the Zoll AED Plus can be deployed in almost any organization/facility. However, below is a list of industries which we have found it to be the most beneficial in:

• Athletic Facilities
• Government Agencies
• Law Enforcement
• Manufacturing Plants

Contact HeartSafe America today to find out more about the Zoll AED Plus AED and how to implement an AED Program for your organization. HeartSafe America's goal is to educate the public about Sudden Cardiac Arrest and how AEDs can increase the survival rate.

Medtronic/Physio Control LifePak CR+ AED; Automated External Defibrillator, Purchase an AED, AED Program, LifePak, Defibrillator

Purchasing an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can be a difficult decision with numerous manufacturers to choose from and numerous different features. Therefore, understanding the differences and capabilities of each AED is key to selecting the proper AED for your organization.

As individuals, businesses, churches and other organizations pursue the possibility of obtaining an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), determining which device to purchase can be a little over whelming and confusing. Therefore, our goal is to help you understand the differences & capabilities of each AED. With that being said, today’s blog will take an in depth look at Physio-Control’s LIFEPAK CR Plus.

The LIFEPAK CR Plus Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a device with professional grade functionality, designed specifically for the “lay person” environment. The simple to use CR PLUS AED employs one of the most advanced technologies in defibrillation available on the consumer market. This technology is called “Adaptive Biphasic” and is the same technology used by EMS and hospitals nationwide.

In simple terms, Adaptive means the internal brain of the AED will “adapt” the amount of energy and length of the current based on the victim’s heart rhythm. Biphasic indicates how the current will travel. “Bi” (meaning two) signifies that the current will cross the heart twice, making the shock more effective.

The CR PLUS is available in two configurations, “Semi-Automatic” or “Automatic.” In the semi-automatic configuration, once the pads have been applied to the victim’s chest, the AED will analyze the heart rhythm to determine if a shock is needed. If a shockable rhythm is detected, the CR Plus will advise the rescuer to “push the red flashing button” to deliver a shock.

In the fully-automatic configuration, once the pads have been applied to the victim’s chest, the AED will analyze the heart rhythm to determine if a shock is needed. If a shockable rhythm is detected, the CR Plus will begin charging, instruct the rescuer to “stand back”, and deliver a shock without rescuer assistance. Both versions of the CR Plus are programmed to shock only if one of two rhythms is detected, Ventricular Fibrillation (VFIB) or Ventricular Tachycardia (VTAC).

Both CR Plus configurations employ an escalating energy protocol of:

Shock #1: 200 joules
Shock #2: 300 joules
Shock #3: 360 joules

This protocol is used by a large number of Medical Professionals and has shown to be more effective in defibrillating patients with higher impedance Furthermore, the CR Plus is equipped with pediatric capability which will automatically reduce the amount of energy by 1/3 when the pediatric pads are connected. Pediatric pads are designed to be used on children under the age of 8 years old or 55lbs and under.

Another safety feature of the CR Plus is its motion detection sensor. This safety mechanism determines if the victim is inadvertently being moved or touched by a live person when a shock is about to be delivered. This will prevent the other person from being shocked as well and avoid another potential risk of a problem.

Finally, The LIFEPAK CR Plus is virtually maintenance free and has one date to monitor to replace both the pads and the batteries. If the display window at the top of the device shows “OK”, it is “Rescue Ready”. To avoid power failure and maintain its “Rescue Ready” status, the device has two power sources, a small trickle charge battery and a larger internal battery. The internal battery has the ability to retain a charge for up to another 12 months after the expiration of the trickle charge battery. However, this is NOT recommended by Physio-Control.

The CR Plus has many great features that make it applicable for any public access setting. However, what sets it apart from other AEDs is its ability to adapt to the patient and deliver a highly effective shock. This is why so many of the following organizations have chosen Physio-Control.

• Medical & Healthcare Professionals
• Fortune 1000 Corporations
• Federal & State Agencies
• Law Enforcement Agencies
• School Districts

Contact HeartSafe America today to find out more about the Medtronic/Physio Control LifePak CR+ and how to implement your AED Program. HeartSafe America's goal is to educate the public about Sudden Cardiac Arrest and how AEDs can increase the survival rate.

HeartSine Samaritan PAD AED, Automated External Defibrillator, AED Program, Purchasing an AED

Purchasing an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can be a difficult decision with numerous manufacturers to choose from and numerous different features. Therefore, understanding the differences and capabilities of each AED is key to selecting the proper AED for your organization.

The HeartSine Samaritan PAD Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a device that’s ideal for any organization. Not only is it the lightest (2.4 lbs) of all the AEDs on the market, but also the most durable. With an IP rating of 56 against dust and water, the HeartSine Samaritan can be exposed to various weather conditions which allows it to be taken virtually anywhere.

Unlike its competitors, the HeartSine Samaritan utilizes PAD-PAKs (adult & pediatric). These PAD-PAKs consist of one set of pad and a battery sealed together with one expiration date. Each PAD-PAK has a lifespan of 3.5 years , keeping the cost of replacement pads/batteries to a minimum. The PAD-PAKs also aviation ready, meaning the HeartSine Samaritan can be used during flight in the event someone experience sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).

The HeartSine Samaritan performs self tests daily, weekly, and monthly to ensure the AED is fully functional. The status indicator light will flash to let the responder know that this AED is rescue ready at any time. With clear voice prompts, the HeartSine Samaritan assists responders during an emergency and allowing the responder to bridge the gap until local EMS arrives. Not only does its lighted visual and audio display help guide the responder step by step, but this feature helps the responder understand what the next step should be. If a shock is needed, the “shock button” illuminates and should be pushed.

A key factor when deciding purchasing any electronic device is the manufacturer’s warranty. The HeartSine offers one of the longest warranties on the market, 7 years. The PAD-PAK itself has a 3 year warranty. The long warranty demonstrates the manufacturer’s extraordinary commitment to quality.

The HeartSine Samarian has the ability to record any event that occurs during its use. It will record the ECG trace and duration, shock delivery information, and the CPR intervals. This information can be downloaded to your computer using the HeartSine Data Cable. Furthermore, the USB data cable can also be used to update the Samaritan to the latest AHA Guidelines.

As you can see, there are many advantages to owning the Heartsine Samaritan. Below is a list of major business sectors that have found to Samaritan to be an ideal fit.

• Electric Companies
• Construction Companies
• School Districts
• Fortune 500 Companies
• Government Entities
• Churches

Contact HeartSafe America today to find out more about the HeartSine Samaritan PAD AED and how to implement your AED Program. HeartSafe America’s goal is to educate the public about Sudden Cardiac Arrest and how AEDs can increase the survival rate.

Philips HeartStart FRx AED; Automated External Defibrillator; AED Program, AED for your organization

Purchasing an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can be a difficult decision with numerous manufacturers to choose from and numerous different features. Therefore, understanding the differences and capabilities of each AED is key to selecting the proper AED for your organization.

In an effort to help Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) buyers understand the differences and capabilities between defibrillators, HeartSafe America is reviewing the top public access defibrillators on the market. Last week, we began our six part series with the Defibtech Lifeline, whose advantages were ease of use, functional design, CPR Coaching and durability. Today, we will take a look at the Philips Heartstart FRx, the newest member to the Philips Family.

TECHNOLOGY
In designing the FRx, Philips started with the following proven technology used in their Onsite and FR2 AEDs:

• Smart Biphasic Waveform: Philips biphasic waveform delivers a highly effective defibrillation shock that is also gentle to the heart. Its SMART Analysis ensures that the FRx only shocks when it should. After the pads are placed on the body, Smart Analysis automatically assesses the victim’s heart rhythm and if a shockable rhythm is detected, it will advise the responder to press the “flashing orange” shock button. However, if a shockable rhythm is not present, the FRx will prompt the responder to begin CPR and will not deliver a shock even if the orange shock button is pressed.
• Quickshock: If Smart Analysis determines that a shock is needed, Philips Quickshock feature allows the FRx to deliver a shock in approximately 8 seconds. Its ability to charge and deliver a shock so quickly, minimizes the interruption of CPR Chest Compressions, thereby increasing the chance in a successful return to spontaneous circulation.
• CPR Coaching: Whether a shock is delivered or not, effective CPR is vital to saving the victim. However, since CPR is rarely practiced outside of yearly/ bi-yearly renewal courses, having a reminder can be helpful. The FRx’s CPR Coaching proves this reminder with clear voice instructions to assist the responder with CPR basics and a metronome to keep chest compression cadence.

INFANT CHILD CAPABILITY
Every AED on the market today has the ability to reduce the energy level to shock children under the age of 8 years old. Normally, this is achieved using a 2nd set of pads. However, the Philips FRx employs an Infant Child Key which is easier to use, quicker to activate and a cost of ownership savings. The FRx’s Infant Child Key is a major technological advancement and a huge advantage over competitors.

EASE OF USE
Designed for the lay-person, the Philips FRx uses voice prompts, a lighted visual display and CPR Coaching to guide minimally trained responders through the save process. These are the same features which have earned the FRx’s sister device, the Philips Onsite, numerous accolades as the “easiest device for a lay-responders to use”.

DURABILITY
In order to make the Philips FRx applicable for any setting, Philips designed it to be very rugged and durable. With a high rating against water & dust, the Philips FRx can be deployed in environments where rain & solid particles are a factor.

TRAINER OPTION
When purchasing an AED, training your organization with a “like” device is very important. However, most AEDs on the market require that you spend another $300-400 to purchase a separate trainer. Fortunately, the Philips FRx allows you to convert the “live” device into a trainer with the acquisition of training pads. By simply plugging the training pads into the Philips FRx, these pads activate the FRx’s training mode and suspend the defibrillator’s ability to deliver a shock. The training mode allows the user to run eight different training scenarios.

MANUFACTURER STABILITY
When purchasing any product, manufacturer reputation and stability is a huge consideration. Reputation is an indication of how reliable the product is and stability tells you if the company will be around to service the product. With over 100 years in the medical field and over 500,000 AEDs deployed worldwide, Philips is the industry leader and the most stable company in an industry. Therefore, when purchasing Philips AED, consumers will have great confidence that their Philips will work now and in the future.

As you can see, the Philips FRx has been designed to meet the needs of any organization. With innovative technology, clear narration, high durability, trainer option and a very stable manufacturer, the Philips FRx can be considered the best device on the market to deploy in a public access setting. However, we have found that the FRx to ideal for the following organizations:

• Athletic Departments/Teams
• Chemical Plants
• Law Enforcement Agencies
• Electric Companies
• Manufacturing Plants

Contact HeartSafe America today to find out more about the Philips HeartStart FRx AED and how to implement your AED Program. HeartSafe America’s goal is to educate the public about sudden cardiac arrest and how AEDs increase the survival rate.

Data Management Solutions; AED Tracking, AED Program, Automated External Defibrillator, SCA

Data Management Solution program is a simple way for any organization to keep their AED program on track. The AED Program Coordinator will be able to track each of the AEDs using our Data Management Solution program.

When implementing an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Program, performing monthly inspections, tracking replacement part expiration dates and monitoring CPR/AED training renewals can be time consuming and difficult to keep up with.

Therefore, in an effort to assist organizations in maintaining a successful and legally compliant AED Program, HeartSafe America has developed a proprietary web-based tracking program with the following features and functionality:

• Stores a master list of all AEDs, locations and contact personnel.
• Provides quick reference to AED serial numbers and all part numbers.
• Monthly inspection log which sends email reminders if inspection is not performed.
• Tracks replacement part expiration dates and sends email notifications.
• Designated section to document incidents and log event data.
• Tracks CPR/AED certified personnel and sends email renewal reminders.
• Numerous comprehensive reports to help AED Coordinator easily manage AED Program.
• Multiple security levels to limit user access based on AED Program responsibilities.

This software program is known as our “Data Management Solution (DMS)” and is currently being used by numerous Fortune 1000 companies.

Many organizations have similar questions as to why our Data Management Solution (DMS) program would be a good fit for their organization. At HeartSafe America, we want to ensure that every one our clients experiences the benefits of our DMS program. Below are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about our Data Management Solution program.

How will the data management solutions program be beneficial to my organization?

Our Data Management Solution (DMS) program allows an organization to manage their AED Program by organizing device information in a centralized web-based location for quick access. Having this information organized and readily available eliminates confusion, duplication and most importantly, keeps the AEDs “rescue ready”.

If my organization has AED in different locations, will my organization be able to track these AEDS?

Our DMS allows any organization to track an AED regardless of location. Once an AED is entered into the system, it is assigned to a specific location where the location can be viewed by the Site Coordinator and AED Program Coordinator regardless of geographic location.

Will the program notify my organization to perform the monthly inspections?

Monthly inspection reminders are sent out each month on the designated inspection date to the Site Coordinator or assigned inspector. If the inspection is not performed on the designated inspection date, the DMS will continue to email reminders until inspection is performed and entered into the system. These reminders should insure that your monthly inspections are being performed, keeping your organization legally compliant and your devices operational.

Will the DMS Program alert my organization when pads and batteries expire?

When your AED is entered into our DMS Program, the expiration dates for all replacement parts are documented. Then, at 90, 60 and 30 days prior to expiration, the DMS will automatically send an email reminder to Site Coordinator, Backup Site Coordinator and Program Coordinator alerting them to replace this part.

Can my organization track the personnel with CPR/AED training and when their renewals are due?

Our DMS allows your organization to input trained personnel along with their renewal date and certificate type. Then, at 60 and 30 days prior to the renewal, our DMS will automatically send an email reminder to the email address designated in this section.

If an emergency should happen and the AED is used, can my organization log the incident?

Our DMS has an incident log which can be utilized to track any instance when the AED is used. Whether the outcome is successful, unsuccessful or a non event, this information is an important historical reference to be utilized for comparison and training purposes.

Contact HeartSafe America today to find out how our data management solutions program can be an asset to your organization’s AED program. Our goal is to educate the public about Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) and how AEDs can decrease the lives lost to SCA.

AED Liability, Automated External Defibrillator, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, SCA, CPR, Good Samaritan

Liability. This is a “fear” that weighs heavily on everyone’s mind when considering purchasing an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for their organization. All 50 states have created “Good Samaritan” and AED Laws to protect responders, organizations, and the victim. Understanding these laws is key to implementing a successful AED Program.

Is there a liability factor owning an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)?

This question tends to be the number one factor in determining if a corporate, fitness, church or any other organization considers purchasing an automated external defibrillator (AED) for their facility.

There are several factors supporting why liability should no longer be the number one deterrent when considering implementing an AED program. With the passing of the CASA act (Cardiac Arrest Survival Act) of 2000, passed by Bill Clinton, immunity measures from liability for the entity and/or person utilizing an AED in good faith have been enacted on a federal level.

The Cardiac Arrest Survival Act (CASA)1 now requires the U.S. Secretary of the Health and Human Services Department to establish guidelines for placing AEDs in federal buildings. These guidelines must include the proper placement of the AEDs and the appropriate procedures are followed:

• Implement the appropriate training program of the AED device and CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
• Ensure the proper testing and ongoing maintenance of the AED
• Ensuring the proper licensed medical direction and oversight of the program
• Ensure that local EMS (Emergency Medical Services) have been notified of the devices and incidents and uses of the devices

When these guidelines were published, they lead to community based defibrillation programs leading to more unified state AED laws, regulations and training requirements, otherwise known as “Good Samaritan” laws.

Mr. Richard Lazar, a legal expert on emergency medical services topics and an advisor to the National Center for Early Defibrillation states: “The perceptions and fear of legal liability continue to serve as barriers to large-scale adoption of public access defibrillation (PAD) programs in out-of-hospital settings.”

With the help of the medical community’s experience of implementing multiple PAD programs across the US and the advancement in technology, AEDs have become more accessible and easier to purchase without the fear of liability. The trend and fear of not having an AED available at larger, more populated facilities, such as fitness facilities or sporting event venues, is starting to actually turn the other direction.

In the last several years, the liability factor for not having an AED has come up in multiple law suits across the country. Two of the most notable law suits happened in Florida on two separate occasions.

The first of which occurred at the Busch Gardens Theme Park when a 13 year old child died from Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). The park did NOT have an AED on site and was sued by the family. The Jury awarded a judgment of $500,000.00 in damages to the victim’s family.

A second example of a liability issue for not having an AED on site came to light at the “Q Sports Club” fitness center, in Florida. In this particular case a 42 year old gentleman went into SCA and the facility did not have an AED on sight. They were not able to revive the gentleman and he ended up in a coma with no brain function. This case settled out of court for the sum of 2.25 million dollars.

Cases like these clearly illustrate the liability risks that impact businesses can be greatly reduced by implementing AED programs. Obtaining the proper medical direction, following Good Samaritan laws, and receiving the proper CPR/AED training from an experienced and accredited training center, are all major factors in implementing a successful and compliant program.

Contact HeartSafe America to find out more about implementing your AED program utilizing the direction of your state’s Good Samaritan Laws and the CASA act of 2000 guidelines. HeartSafe America offers AEDs from the top AED manufactures. Our goal is to help educate the public about Sudden Cardiac Arrest and how AEDs can help decrease the number of deaths from Sudden Cardiac Arrest with the proper AED program and training.

1 Lazar R.A. Understanding legal issues: National Center for Early Defibrillation