How to save a life: AEDs in schools

More than 2000 New Zealanders suffer cardiac arrests each year, and survival rates average only 10 percent.

The only treatment for a sudden cardiac arrest is CPR and defibrillation, which can be administered by an AED. Having an automatic external defibrillator (AED) nearby can be the difference between life and death.

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Schools are community hubs, often hosting not just staff and students but whānau and the wider population. Similarly, schools are often centrally located and easily accessible, which makes having an AED on school grounds important for the surrounding population.

AEDs can “jump-start” a heart that has stopped, by delivering an electric shock to it. After pads are positioned on the patient, the device will perform and automatic analysis of the patient’s heart rhythm. When necessary, it will administer an electric shock to the heart to restart muscle contractions and get the heart back to its normal rhythms.

Here, we discuss important steps you can take to ensure effective AED access and use, to potentially save a life.

AED models 

Modern AED devices are designed to be easy to use. When an emergency arises, AEDs should be administered promptly, with survival rates dropping by 10 percent for every minute that passes without defibrillation administered.

Some AEDs have voice prompts, visual cues and CPR feedback options. These can help guide users through the process. This feature may be especially important if there is a possibility the device will be used by someone untrained in CPR.

AEDs should also be durable and portable. Schools should look for waterproof and dust proof ratings, especially for outdoor environments. A long-lasting battery helps to ensure minimal maintenance and smooth operation. Some models come with a battery life of four years or more, keeping maintenance costs down.

Having a compact AED means that if an emergency unfolds, the device can be easily accessed and moved around to respond. 

For schools, special features such as paediatric pads are important to consider. These modified pads are a better fit for children and lower the shock rate to suit paediatric patients. Adult pads can be used on children, though they may need to be positioned differently. Talk to your AED provider for advice on how best to use pads for all patients with your school’s specific AED.

Devices should also be approved by the appropriate regulatory body to meet New Zealand’s requirements, and should have a MedSafe certification and TGA approval.

Maintenance

AEDs need regular maintenance.

Some models come with self-check features that display the device’s readiness. Models can do this daily, weekly, or monthly. The self-checks ensure that each component, such as pads and battery, and the device itself is functional. These features can lead to future savings costs as they may eliminate the need for annual third-party checks. 

Each AED device will have an associated cost for replacing components such as pads and batteries. Accounting for the shelf life of these components and the cost of replacement will ensure schools can manage the costs of AEDs.

Positioning

AEDs should be positioned in high traffic areas like receptions, break rooms or hallways. If possible, there should be an AED within one to three minutes of any location within the school. AEDs should be signposted with bright standardised signage and accessible to all people, including wheelchair users. This means positioning it in a publicly accessible area and at an appropriate height.   

As Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), school boards are required to have an appropriate number of people trained in an NZQA certified first aid course. Schools may want to consider potential hazards when selecting an appropriate course. For example, secondary schools handling hazardous chemicals in science classes should have first aiders trained in chemical burns and eye wash protocol; PE teachers may need first aid training specific to injuries like sprains and breaks or breathing difficulties.

All workers should be made aware of the location of first aid kits and AEDs, and the names and locations of first aiders.

Portable first aid kits should be made available for school trips.

From an industry insider

Simon Barnett, Head of Training and Medical Products, Hato Hone St John, said: “When selecting a defibrillator for a school, it’s essential to consider its ease of use, reliability, and accessibility. It should have clear voice prompts and visual instructions to help the user in the event of a sudden cardiac arrest. 

“It should also be considered whether the device has paediatric capabilities, especially in primary school environments.”

Mr Barnett added that schools should consider the costs of ongoing maintenance when selecting an AED, such as the cost and life of the replacement pads and batteries to ensure that the device is going to meet your requirements.

 “Defibrillators should be placed in highly visible and easily accessible locations,” Mr Barnett said. “Areas with high foot traffic could also be suitable such as the gymnasium, assembly hall or cafeteria. It should also be considered to place them near entrances to allow for quick access.

“Ensure the defibrillator is mounted with clear signage and that all staff are aware of the location.”