October 30, 2009, Gallipolis, OH - In observance of Sudden Cardiac Awareness month Holzer Cardiovascular Institute has donated seven Automated External Defibrillators (AED’s) to different businesses and churches throughout Gallia and Jackson County in efforts to create awareness and help prevent sudden cardiac death. An AED or automated external defibrillator is a portable electronic device that automatically diagnoses the potential life threatening cardiac arrhythmia in a patient, and is able to treat them through defibrillation.

The American Heart Association (AHA) estimates the annual number of out of hospital sudden cardiac deaths @ 250,000 annually. Most victims die from an abnormal heart rhythm called ventricular fibrillation. Ventricular fibrillation causes the heart to quiver and ineffectively pump blood. If untreated the heart will stop beating and survival of the victim is limited. The treatment for this abnormal heart rhythm is an electrical shock provided by and automatic external defibrillator.

The AHA has recommends 4 links to survival for out of hospital sudden cardiac arrest.

1. Early awareness of event and activation of the EMS system
2. Early bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
3. Early defibrillation
4. Early Advanced Life Support

The bystander now can perform the first three links in the chain of survival for out of hospital arrests with proper training and education. Public access to AED means making the device available in public areas where large numbers of people are gathered. This can be in a workplace; sporting events, churches or where people are that may be high risk for a heart attack.

The AED is a computerized medical device that can check a person’s heart rhythm. It can recognize a rhythm that requires the electrical shock. It can advise the rescuer when a shock is needed. The AED uses prompts, lights and test messages to tell the rescuer steps to take. AED’s are very accurate to use with a few hours of training; anyone can learn to operate an AED safely.

When an AED is placed in training in CPR and AED use should occur by a recognized training facility. Most states have guidelines that recommend an public access program for AED usage, this may include notification of local EMS systems where AED are located; training of staff in CPR and AED use and maintenance of the AED.

The Holzer Cardiovascular Institute will provide American Heart Association CPR and AED education as requested for the receivers of the AED.

Holzer Clinic… Medical Excellence, Local Caring.

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