Only 1 in 10 people survive sudden cardiac arrest
Having an automated external defibrillator (AED) or “defib” in your workplace, community club or home could make the difference between life and death.
AEDs are easy to use and maintain, and can help you save a life.
Sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death in Australia, with less than a 10% survival rate.
Sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time.
Sudden cardiac arrest is not a heart attack; a heart attack is a problem with the plumbing of the heart, where one or more of the arteries delivering blood to the heart is blocked, so oxygen in the blood cannot reach the heart muscle and the heart muscle is damaged.
Sudden cardiac arrest occurs because of an electrical problem in the heart. Just like a pump needs an energy source to work, the heart’s pumping mechanism is driven by electrical signals.
In a sudden cardiac arrest, the electrical signals to the pump become erratic.
How does an AED work?
Modern AEDs analyse a person's heart rhythm and determine whether defibrillation (an electric shock to the heart) is required.
Once activated, an AED delivers clear voice instructions to guide users through each step of defibrillation and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Integrated pads placed on the person’s bare skin transmit information to the AED, which senses and adapts to the user’s actions at every step.
By shocking the heart, the AED helps to restore it's electrical signals back to a normal rhythm.
To give the patient the best chance of survival, an AED should be applied in the first few minutes of sudden cardiac arrest.
How to access an AED?
To purchase an AED, head to our First Aid Sales & Restocking page. Our team can help you choose one that is suitable.
We also run an AED program to support local organisations in acquiring a device. Learn more about the St John NT Heart Grant program here.
To find your nearest public access AED, download the St John First Responder app. Click below to learn more.
