[Automated external defibrillation: new French guidelines and their application].
Presse medicale (Paris, France · 2008-04-28 · Guideline / consensus
Abstract
Unexpected cardiac arrest, that is, sudden death in adults, accounts for nearly 50 000 deaths each year in France. Automated external defibrillation performed in public places improves victims' survival. Automated external defibrillators can be made available in 2 different ways: for "self-service" by members of the public, or through a designated staff person. The effectiveness of the program relies on an appropriate choice of location for these defibrillators. Extensive training of the public is not mandatory, but quick lessons in how to use the material and of cardiopulmonary resuscitation are necessary. They should be offered to the population as short free training lessons and as information campaigns. This minimal training covers 3 actions: (1) call for help from the emergency medical services, (2) perform chest compression (external cardiac massage), (3) plug in the defibrillator and follow the instructions on it until help arrives. Programs that make defibrillators available must organize maintenance to verify that they are in good operating condition at regular intervals and must assess the quality of their use, by collecting data on the cases treated.
Tags
Automated external defibrillator · Bystanders & volunteers · Implementation · Mass gatherings & events