Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is one of the leading causes of death in New Zealand. It can happen to anyone – anywhere.

Having an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) in your workplace or community can make the difference between life and death. An AED can increase someone’s survival chances by up to 44 percent. Without an AED the chance of survival decreases by 10 percent for each minute that passes without defibrillation.

What is an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)?

An AED is a lightweight, portable device that that analyses the heart’s rhythm and if necessary, delivers an electric shock, known as defibrillation, to help restore the heart’s natural rhythm.

Modern AEDs, such as the models sold by St John, are designed to be used by someone with little or no training. Through visual and voice prompts, AEDs guide users through an emergency by diagnosing the victim’s heart rhythm and AEDs are important because they strengthen the Chain of Survival.

Chain of Survival

When someone suffers a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) outside of hospital, there’s a chain of events, known as the Chain of Survival, which can increase their chance of survival.

Made up of six links the Chain of Survival when implemented early in a cardiac event can improve chances of survival dramatically.

1. Early recognition – that a cardiac arrest has occurred – awareness and understanding the signs.
2. Access to emergency services – dial 111.
3. Early access to CPR – be ready to act.
4. Early access to defibrillation – knowing the location and use of nearest AED.
5. Advanced care – Ambulance services.
6. Post Resuscitation treatment – in the hospital.

About Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)

• SCA occurs when the electrical system of the heart becomes chaotic, causing it to stop beating effectively.
• Each year more than 2,000 New Zealanders are treated for SCA away from a hospital.
• Fewer than 15% of people survive a SCA.
• Early defibrillation, along with CPR, is the only way to restore the victim’s heart rhythm.
• Without CPR or defibrillation, for every minute that passes the chance of survival decreases by 10%.
• SCA is not the same as a heart attack. SCA is an electrical problem. A heart attack is a blood circulation problem.

If you’re looking to buy our range of AEDs and accessories, including replacement batteries, pads, signage and storage options, click here to BUY NOW