Ulster GAA have included documents to provide clubs with an overview of the role of defibrillators and guidelines in key areas such as the acquisition, accessibility & storage, training and maintenance of AEDs.
A defibrillator should be used when a person is in cardiac arrest. CPR should be done until you can get a defibrillator.
If you see someone having a cardiac arrest, call 999, start CPR and get someone to find a defibrillator. The emergency operator can advise you if you can’t find one. Once you get the defibrillator, turn it on and continue CPR until the device tells you to stop. Anyone can use a defibrillator whether trained or not.
Issues to consider prior to/following the purchase of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
1. Where will the AED be placed?
It should be somewhere central where it can be easily accessed and preferably mounted on a wall.
2. Who will provide the initial AED training?
This training should provided by an accredited first aid organisation/person. The contents of the course should be in accordance with the training recommendations set out for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Automated External Defibrillation.
3. Ongoing training commitment.
All identified personnel who have received initial training should be updated at least once a year but preferably every 6 months to ensure best practice.
4. Who will be responsible for checking the AED?
There should be a designated person/s with responsibility for checking the AED. This should be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
For example on a weekly basis the following should be checked:
There must be a recognised protocol in place to deal with any problems identified.
5. Have you notified the insurance company of your organisation to let them know that there is an AED on site?
This is to provide cover in the event of the equipment being stolen or damaged.
6. Is there aftercare/debriefing available for the person/s who have used the AED in a cardiac arrest situation?
A simple telephone call or visit to the person to ensure they are ok after the experience and wish to remain as one of your designated responders.
Remember that Defibrillation is the third link in the chain of survival.
Trained personnel prior to link 3 should be able to:
Contact us today to find out more about how our programmes can be applied within your club.
