Heart disease is the single leading cause of death in the United States, claiming over 450,000 deaths in a single year. Sudden cardiac arrest, commonly referred to as a severe/massive heart attack, is a form of heart disease that affects men and women regardless of age or health. Fortunately sudden cardiac arrest can be easily treated through the use of an automated external defibrillator, or AED for short. However, proximity is key for survival.

Over the years, AED and sudden cardiac awareness have drastically improved. It is now uncommon to not see an AED or defibrillator on hand in major public arenas, such as airports, schools, malls, and more. However, AED awareness can always be improved.

With increased awareness, AEDs have also become incredibly easy to use, so much so in fact that the devices are actually created for individuals that have no experience and/or training whatsoever in CPR and/or AED use. Popular models for laypersons include the LIFEPAK CR Plus from Medtronic Physio-Control and the Philips HeartStart OnSite. For rescue professionals, the LIFEPAK 1000 and the Philips FRx AED are the top sellers.

For laypersons, meaning those that do not necessarily have any training with AEDs or CPR, there are two models that have been designed for ease of use and user preference. For example, the LIFEPAK CR Plus comes in either a fully-automatic and semi-automatic version. The fully-automatic LIFEPAK CR Plus AED requires nothing more than the attaching of electrodes, called a CHARGE-PAK for LIFEPAK CR Plus electrodes. These in turn provide measurements of the patients heart and will automatically shock the patient when in need. The semi-automatic version requires the responder to simply press a button to administer the shock and nothing more.

Of course with the more advanced models, such as the LIFEPAK 1000, the Philips FRx, the Zoll AED Pro and others, responders have greater control and ability to customize their therapy. For the advance AED models, you won’t see fully-automatic versions from the top manufacturers, as responders tend to prefer to have greater control over the rescue situation they find themselves in.

With greater AED awareness, training, and knowledge of sudden cardiac arrest, more lives can be saved. Thousands of people worldwide have already received a new lease on life from an AED and the Samaritan that came to their rescue. Next time you walk around a public and/or even private space, keep an eye and see where the nearest AED might be. Can’t find one? Then speak to your local government officials, employers, or coworkers and make sure you’re best prepared for sudden cardiac arrest.