Automated External Defibrillator Course

On-line AED Distance Learning Course!!

Defibrillators have long been used to deliver an electrical shock in an attempt to restore a heartbeat of an adult in sudden cardiac arrest. In adult sudden cardiac arrest the most frequent initial abnormal heart rhythm is called ventricular fibrillation . This is an abnormal chaotic or quivering heart rythm that prevents the heart from pumping blood. The most effective treatment for this abnormal heart rythm is defibrillation.

A new technological advance in defibrillation is the Automated External Defibrillator or AED. The trained AED operator turns the machine on and attaches the adhesive electrode pads in their proper positions on the patients chest. the AED then analyzes the heart rhythm of the patient in sudden cardiac arrest and advises the operator , through a voice prompt and LED screen, if a shockable rhythm is detected. The operator pushes a shock button to deliver a shock through the test pads. AEDs are simple to use because they interpret the heart's ECG signal and advise the operator on what to do. Use by people trained in Basic life Support is possible because AEDs take the vital decision of whether or not to deliver a shock out of the hands of the responder.

The Automated External Defribrillation course follows EMP's easy-learning, hands-on video-based training method. The course includes a video with action scenarios featuring firefighters, police personnel, EMS, and an industrial emergency response team. The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada is reccommending AED training for firefighters, police, and other public safety personnel. In-class materials include a Facilitator's Visual Skill Guide and a Student Successful Completion Pack.