Defibrillator Facts: Separating the Fact from the Fiction

For a variety of reasons, people are believing common misconceptions over the real defibrillator facts.

It is important that everyone feels comfortable around defibrillators and feels capable of using one if needed. To help improve common misunderstanding, we separate the defibrillator facts from the fiction.

1. You have to be a Medical Professional to use a Defibrillator

You do not have to be a medical professional to use a defibrillator. Responders who aren't trained can also use defibrillators.

Equipped with audio and visual guides, defibrillators guide responders through every step of the rescue, so they can feel confident in the treatment they're delivering.

2. Delivering CPR and Using a defibrillator causes Serious Harm

CPR can cause both bruises and broken ribs, however, people recover from these. Without defibrillation and CPR, cardiac arrests are fatal.

Defibrillators analyse heart rhythms and use the collected data to determine shock requirements. Defibrillators only deliver shocks if required.

Users cause no further harm to the patient when using defibrillators and delivering CPR.

3. When using a Defibrillator, I Might get a Shock too

Defibrillators only deliver shocks after detecting specific abnormal heart rhythms. Users have a normal resting heart rhythm and therefore, do not receive shocks during treatment.

When following the defibrillators instructions, users will be informed when they both can and cannot touch the patient.

4. Defibrillators Always Result in a Successful Recovery

There are a variety of reasons why delivering treatment doesn't result in a successful revival.

Delivering CPR and a shock within 3-5 minutes after someone has suffered a cardiac arrest increases their survival chance from 6% to 74%. However, delaying treatment results in a decrease of 10% per minute for the victim's survival chance.

5. Paramedics Arrive Before I have to use the Defibrillator

Without immediate treatment, 90-95% of cardiac arrests are fatal. Current ambulance response rates stand at 11 minutes in urban areas, therefore there is no guarantee paramedics will arrive prior to using the defibrillator.

Acting fast provides the highest chance of survival.

Defibrillator Facts

Having a comprehensive knowledge about defibrillator facts ensures you're aware of these life-saving devices and are able to act during an emergency.

Ensure your workplace is both heart safe and ready to save a life by equipping yourself with a bespoke defibrillator Office Package.

defibshop are committed to equipping everyone with the skills and knowledge to save a life. Speak to one of our Product Specialists on 0161 776 7422 or fill out our Contact Form.

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