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Frequently Asked Questions

What is an AED? AED stands for Automated External Defibrillator—a portable device used when a victim suffers Sudden Cardiac Arrest. AEDs analyze the heart's rhythm and—only if necessary—allow the rescuer to deliver an electric shock which can help regain a normal heart rhythm. Read more: How AEDs Work.

How big is it? An AED weighs about 6 pounds and is about the size of a laptop computer.

Will it shock anyone/anytime? AEDs will ONLY deliver an electrical charge to a "shockable rhythm" (considered life threatening) and only upon activation by the rescuer. If the victim's heart rhythm is not lethal, the machine will NOT shock. By taking basic precautions, of which Zoll AED products remind the rescuer, AEDs are safe for both the victim and the rescuer.

Do AEDs guarantee victims will survive? While AEDs dramatically improve a victim's chances (from as low as 5% to as high as 75%), no AED can promise to save everyone, every time.

Who can use them? Anyone can operate an AED; you don’t have to be a medical professional. There are, however, different legal requirements for public uses of AEDs versus private—AED Perfection can advise you on your particular application.

When should I use an AED? When a victim is not responding, not breathing, without a pulse, or any time you are not sure. The machine will analyze the victim and provide the correct treatment.

Why can't I just do CPR? CPR can be very useful, but cannot “restart” a stopped heart. AEDs are necessary for the heart to reestablish an effective rhythm of its own. CPR should be used in conjunction with an AED.

If ambulances have AEDs, why do I need one? Even the best rescue response times in the country aren't enough: with every minute that passes, a victim's chances of survival decrease by 10%. In some businesses and buildings, AEDs are required. In many others they are simply good business and a sign that you care about saving lives.

Are they required by law? Each state has its own legal requirements which are changing rapidly. AED Perfection can advise you on all the requirements in your location.

Will I get sued if the victim does not survive? As the rescuer, you are protected by "Good Samaritan Laws" (Title 22) in most circumstances. There has never, to date, been a successful lawsuit against someone using an AED. Note: State laws vary as do rules for business, private, or public use. AED Perfection's professionals can guide you on all the intricacies. Based on recent press, certain businesses and locations are more likely to get sued for NOT having an AED than for using one.

...There's more to it than you need to know! AED Perfection stays abreast of technological developments, legal regulations, and everything you need to know. Have more questions? Contact Us.

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     AEDs SAVE LIVES
            How AEDs work
            Recent Press
            Laws & Legislation
            Compare Products

    WE MAKE IT EASY
           About AED Perfection
           Frequently Asked Questions
           HOW TO ORDER
           2005 AHA Upgrades