With Sudden Cardiac Arrests seemingly becoming more commonplace in the news, parents are beginning to ask questions about their school’s AED program.

Many school systems have recently invested dollars in ensuring their schools are equipped and trained to treat SCA if it happens on their premises. In fact, most states have laws requiring AEDs on campus.

At AED Brands, we often do business with schools and universities of all sizes across the United States on a daily basis. With a 15-year track record of helping schools find the right AED that meets their needs, we’ve decided to share some recommendations here on our blog.

The Importance of Having an AED in a School Setting?

Having an automated external defibrillator (AED) in a school setting is important because it can potentially save a person’s life in the event of a cardiac emergency. SCA can occur at any time and is a leading cause of death, especially in individuals with underlying heart conditions.

When SCA occurs, the heart suddenly stops functioning and the victim collapses. Without prompt treatment, death can occur within minutes.

An AED is a portable device that delivers an electric shock to the heart through the chest to try to restore a normal heart rhythm.

Modern AEDs are designed for use by laypeople with little or no medical training, and they provide clear audio and visual instructions to guide the user through the process of using the device.

How often should an AED be inspected and maintained?

AEDs should be inspected at least once a month and maintained according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. This includes checking the battery, pads, and other components for expiration or damage. It is also important to ensure the AED is in proper working condition and that the rescue kit is fully stocked.

Who should be trained to use an AED in a school setting?

It is recommended that all school staff, including teachers, administrators, coaches, and custodial staff, be trained in the use of an AED. It is also recommended that students receive training in AED use as part of their health education curriculum.

Are there any special regulations or requirements for AEDs in schools?

Each state has its own regulations and requirements for AEDs in schools. It is important to check with your state’s health department or other relevant agencies to ensure compliance with any local laws or regulations.

How Many AEDs should be in a school?

The answer depends on taking several factors into account like the total square footage, student size, number of floors, and the presence of a gym or exercise room. Use our AED Calculator Tool to give a rough estimate of how many devices should be in your school.

Choosing the Right AED Defibrillator for Schools

When it comes to choosing an automated external defibrillator (AED) for your school, there are key features that can make all the difference in a life-threatening emergency. To ensure you have the right equipment on hand, consider these essential factors:

Pediatric Capabilities: For younger students, it’s crucial to have a defibrillator with pediatric capabilities. Some AEDs come with separate pediatric pads, while others have a switch that can be set to either standard or pediatric settings. This is especially important for children under 8 years old and weighing less than 55 pounds, who may not be able to handle the full electric shock of standard defibrillation.

Bilingual Ability: In the event of an emergency, every second counts. That’s why having AEDs with dual-language capabilities can be especially valuable for schools located in bilingual areas. With clear, audible instructions in multiple languages, anyone can quickly administer lifesaving defibrillation.

Ease of Use: While it’s ideal to have faculty members trained in Basic Life Support (BLS), the reality is that anyone may need to use the AED in an emergency. Look for devices that are easy to use, even for those with minimal training.

Stick with the Best: To ensure the quality and reliability of your AED, stick with FDA-approved manufacturers like Philips, HeartSine, Physio-Control, Defibtech, ZOLL, and Cardiac Science. Additionally, make sure that each device:

• Comes with an extended warranty
• Performs daily, weekly, and monthly self-tests to ensure it’s always ready for use
• Includes functioning batteries and electrodes (check expiration dates)