An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable unit, designed for people with no medical knowledge, which can administer a measured electrical shock to a heart attack victim in order to re-establish a steady heart rhythm. Standard CPR (the traditional ‘first-aid’ approach) on a heart attack victim provides a 5% chance of survival, but access to a defibrillator improves that to a 50% chance. Following a cardiac arrest, the chance of survival decreases by 23% per minute.
Todenham has two AED’s one located on the front of the Village Hall, Todenham Road and the other on Orchard House, Wolford Road. The unit is designed to require very little maintenance and is housed in a locked, weatherproof cabinet, to ensure it is always ready for use. It is regularly checked by a volunteer resident on behalf of the Parish Council. The unit has its own automated instructions using a synthesised voice and when applied to the patient will assess whether a shock is appropriate and if so, how strong it should be.
What to do in the event of an emergency
If you suspect someone is having a heart attack, dial 999 immediately. The Emergency Control Centre will despatch an ambulance and offer advice on the best way to help the patient. When you call 999, the operator will tell you where the nearest public access defibrillator is and how to access it.
If the patient goes into cardiac arrest and you are asked to start CPR, do not interrupt CPR to go and find a defibrillator. If it’s possible, send someone else to find one.