16 Jul 2015
Most public buildings have a fire extinguisher which is sensible considering that around 350 people die in fires in the UK every year. Yet 200,000 die from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), and thousands of them could be saved if they collapsed close to a defibrillator. While CPR alone (chest compressions and rescue breaths) saves around 9% of people who suffer from sudden cardiac arrest, CPR and using an automated external defibrillator (AED) increases the chance of survival five-fold to 50%.
The computerised machines, which gives an electric shock to the heart to return it to normal rhythm, are a crucial life-saving tool after sudden cardiac arrest. AEDs are designed to be used by people with no knowledge or experience, as the device talks them clearly through the process and all decisions as to whether or not to shock the patient’s heart are taken by the machine. Also, after ringing 999, a call centre operator will talk rescuers through how to use the AED.
In response to the growing awareness of the need for AEDs in public spaces and the workplace, Bull Products has expanded its range of quality AED equipment. With prices starting at just £700, it now offers its Life Point Pro defibrillator and its Zoll AED Plus defibrillator.
The Life Point Pro AED is designed to keep SCA victims alive by directing the user with voice commands. The unit automatically analyses the ECG signal of the patient and decides whether or not defibrillation is required. Coming in a neat protective carry case, the Life Point Pro can be quickly deployed in the event of an SCA, with a simple three-step operation of simply turning the device on, unpacking the pads and attaching them to the patient’s chest, followed by defibrillation by pressing the shock button.
The Zoll AED Plus defibrillator is a full rescue AED that provides real CPR help for rate and depth of chest compressions. With realtime feedback, the rescuer can provide the best manual CPR resuscitation possible in an SCA. The Zoll AED Plus also comes in an attractive and visible carry case for quick deployment.
Both the Life Point Pro and the Zoll AED Plus have a five-year warranty and replacement pads and batteries are readily available.
Bull Products also offers rental packages for its AEDs for those who prefer this option. Sometimes this is for short term usage, such as events, sponsored walks and festivals. However, the same rental packages help organisations with cash flow and provide comprehensive cover in the way of annual maintenance and servicing, software upgrades when legislation changes, and replacement pads and batteries as they expire. The rental also provides initial training and annual refresher courses.
Government funding is available to help with the purchase of defibrillators for schools, and Bull Products is able to provide guidance on this.
Further information on the AED equipment is available from Bull Products on 0844 669 1111, by emailing info@bullproducts.co.uk or by visiting the company’s website at www.bullproducts.co.uk
