Defibrillators are known to increase a casualty’s chances of survival. For this reason, it is now easily accessible everywhere for the general public to use. However, many people still abstain from taking advantage of it in times of need. You must be wondering why. Aren’t you?
Well, a major reason behind this is believing the myths. There are widespread misunderstandings regarding defibrillators. Are you also keeping from including defibrillator machine in your first aid kit? Well, don’t because here are the myths you should know about.
Top Myths About Defibrillators You Wish You Knew Before
Here are some common myths you should know about defibrillators:
1. You Need Training
A common myth about using these machines is that you must be trained professionally. Well, this isn’t true at all. To operate an AED, you don’t have to be a qualified professional.
The majority of modern defibrillators are made to be used by anyone in an emergency. Certain AED devices use speech prompts to give the user coaching feedback. Voice prompts can guide you thoroughly and let you know where to put the electrode.
2. It Can Restart a Stopped Heart
Another myth about a defibrillator machine is that it can restart a stopped heart. This is completely misunderstood as its function is to first identify any irregular or abnormal heart rhythms.
Once checked, it then shocks the patient to return the heart to its regular rhythm. An AED won’t help when a person’s heart stops beating and is no longer contracting and pumping blood.
3. Not Using It Until the Medical Team Arrives
Some people prefer not to use portable defibrillators until the medical team arrives. This is yet another myth that could cost the life of the patient. Instead, AED must be given as soon as they have a sudden cardiac arrest.
This, as a result, would increase a patient’s chances of survival. Also, the likelihood of survival drops by 10% for each minute that they are not defibrillated. So, until the emergency medical personnel arrive, you have to use the AED.
4. It Can be Used on a Wet Person
Putting an AED on a wet person’s chest is dangerous since it delivers an electrical shock. If not dry, the electric shock will travel across the water rather than into the victim’s body. If wet, the AED adhesive electrode pads also won’t adhere to the patient’s chest.
This will also compromise the power and efficacy of the shock. So, before turning on the portable defibrillator and proceeding, first, make sure the patient’s skin has dried.
5. It Gives a Shock
Another myth of defibrillators is that they give a shock. The AED won’t shock the patient if it doesn’t identify an irregular heart rhythm. Are you wondering what happens when you contact the patient while a shock is being given?
Well, the person will only experience a slight sensation or twinge. Besides, all carers are required to wear gloves. The gloved hand will limit any current that is transferred from the patient to the carer.
6. They are Complicated
Many people believe that defibrillators are complicated and that they make things worse. This isn’t true! If you do nothing, someone who is unconscious and not breathing is dead.
However, they will have the best chance of survival if you use a defibrillator right away. Aren’t portable defibrillators quite simple? Also, they are publicly available for anyone to use in case of an emergency.
7. Don’t Use Adult AED Pads on a Child
Even though AEDs are made for adults, young children under 55 pounds can use them. This is because paediatric settings and pads can lower energy levels. Children as young as eight years old can use adult pads.
Rescuers can use adult pads on newborns and young children if the infants are not accessible on pads. To prevent the pads from touching, place one on the child’s back and the other on the front of their chest.
8. Jump Starting the Heart
When you use a defibrillator machine, you don’t jump-start the heart. Rather, you are halting the heart’s function to give the natural backup mechanism time to restore the heart’s sinus rhythm. Here, time plays a major role as the survival chances for an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest are only roughly 6%.
The patient’s odds of survival increase to 74% if the pads can be placed on their chest in 3 minutes. However, for each minute that the machine is not used, this decreases by 10%.
9. They are Expensive
Many believe that defibrillators are expensive and can only be bought online. However, this is another myth, as you can easily search for the nearest one on the internet. To assist those in need, make sure your defibrillator is registered.
Remember, the AED’s cost will depend on the extra features and other parts. These can include emergency response kits, wall mounts, and signs. To calculate the total cost, you must decide which AED accessories you wish to buy for your device.
10. Can be Used Only Once
A defibrillator machine can be used only once! Well, this is another myth, as AEDs of high quality may deliver hundreds of shocks. However, one must change their batteries or pads.
AEDs can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. However, this can be impacted by usage frequency and storage location. Selecting an AED of a good brand from a reliable source is the key.
Save Lives When Needed the Most
At MedGuard, we are your ultimate destination for all respiratory supplies. From portable defibrillators to nebulisers, we have everything in stock for you. To make sure you receive critical support during emergencies, we offer high-quality tools only.
For workplace-to-home safety, we deliver medical tools to all. For years, we have been in the industry and have never failed to meet client requirements. From quick delivery, top-notch service and accurate results to affordability, you can rely on us fully. For any queries, you can contact us today.
