Public Access to Defibrillation (PAD)
Numerous scientific studies conducted during the past two decades have proven that rapid defibrillation is the single most important factor affecting survival from Sudden Cardiac Arrest in adults. This research, coupled with important technological advances, has driven an international movement to increase access to early defibrillation.
In order to have AEDs available more quickly for persons who need them, some facilities (such as hotels, airports, country clubs, schools etc.) are purchasing these devices under what is called a Public Access Defibrillation (PAD) program. Since AEDs are prescription devices and must be labeled with the prescription statement required by law (CFR 801.109), a physician who oversees the PAD program at a facility must write a prescription for most AEDs in order for the facility to purchase it. This is easily accomplished and there are many who are willing to help you start a PAD program. To date, one model of AED has been cleared for the FDA for over-the-counter sale and in-home use.
AED Programs
Click here for more information on how you can implement an AED program in your community.
Developing Successful Public Access Defibrillator Programs
The amount of time from arrest to defibrillation is one of the most important factors during a cardiac arrest. To help decrease that period of time, public access defibrillator (PAD) programs are being developed across the country. The concept of PAD programs is to place easy to use defibrillators in public locations with the intent that a layperson will quickly use the device to defibrillate someone in a cardiac arrest.
Read an AED implementation program case study.
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