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Training nontraditional responders to use automated external defibrillators
1School of Nursing, San Diego State University, Calif., USA.
Summary
Training laypersons in automated external defibrillator (AED) use is complex. While traditional first responders show safe and effective AED training, more research is needed for public training success.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Emergency Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- The American Heart Association promotes public access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
- Training laypersons to use AEDs presents significant complexities for clinicians.
- Existing data on training nontraditional responders is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review experiences and literature on training nontraditional responders in AED use.
- To gather suggestions from field investigators and workshop participants for effective public AED training.
- To assess the safety and efficacy of AED training for various responder groups.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on training nontraditional responders.
- Integration of insights from active field investigators.
- Consolidation of recommendations from a workshop at the American Heart Association Public Access Defibrillation II Conference.
Main Results:
- Training traditional first responders (police, firefighters) in AED use appears safe and effective.
- Data supporting the efficacy of training nontraditional responders is less convincing.
- Further research is required to validate public AED training effectiveness.
Conclusions:
- Widespread AED training for traditional first responders is feasible and safe.
- Current evidence does not fully support the ease and effectiveness of public AED training.
- Additional research is essential before widespread public AED training can be recommended.