Automatic external defibrillator: key link in the chain of survival.
Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology · 2002-01-01
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Sudden cardiac death is a major health problem. Worldwide success of resuscitation from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is modest, with 5% to 10% survival to hospital discharge. METHODS AND RESULTS: In the chain of survival, early defibrillation (goal <5 min after collapse) is a major determinant of successful outcome of resuscitation. This goal is rarely achieved, but the automatic external defibrillator (AED) is a promising tool for lay defibrillation. The AED is a safe and effective device with nearly 100% accurate detection of ventricular fibrillation and nearly 100% accurate detection of a nonshockable rhythm. A large uncontrolled experience suggests improved outcome in nontraditional responders such as police. Controlled studies of community application of the AED are under way. CONCLUSION: The AED is a promising tool in the fight against sudden cardiac death and should be studied and supported by all scientists involved, including electrophysiologists.