UTMB HANDBOOK OF OPERATING PROCEDURES

Section 8 Health and Safety Subject 8.1 Health and Safety Policy 8.1.22 Public Access to Automated External Defibrillators

09/11/07 -Originated -Reviewed w/ changes -Reviewed w/o changes Education Lab -Author

Public Access to Automated External Defibrillators

Definitions	Automatic External Defibrillator (AED): a device that can be used by any 1st Responder to deliver a shock. It uses a patented Shock Advisory System. This software algorithm analyzes the patient’s electrocardiographic (EKG) rhythm and indicates whether or not it detects a shockable rhythm. The AED requires operator interaction in order to defibrillate the patient.
Policy	UTMB recognizes the importance of providing emergency cardiac care to anyone visiting or working within the UTMB facilities who may collapse from sudden death. Ventricular fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia when sudden death occurs, and early defibrillation is the single most effective intervention in improving survival. AED’s are intended for use by personnel, under the direction of an authorizing physician & coordinated by the Education Lab, who have the following recommended skills & training: • CPR training (Healthcare Provider or Heartsaver AED or Heartsaver 1st Aid with CPR/AED) • AED training equivalent to that recommended by the American Heart Association • Training in the use of an AED device Training is provided by the Education Lab on a regular basis. Note: the use of AED’s as recommended in this policy does not preclude their use by “untrained” individuals in lieu of individuals who have completed training.
Emergency Protocol	If a person collapses in an area with an AED, the following steps should occur: 1. Assess the person for responsiveness 2. If no response, call your emergency number: Code Team 2-400

Procedures

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) • On Campus 9-911 (GEMS) • Off Campus 911 3. Perform CPR, if required, until AED arrives 4. Turn on AED and place AED pads on the chest as indicated 5. Follow the AED voice/visual prompts 6. Continue CPR and/or AED operations until relieved by the Fire Dept., EMS or UTMB Code Team. • The AED may be utilized by UTMB employees, who have completed the above training or equivalent, on individuals who exhibit no signs of life (absence of breathing, coughing, movement, or pulse). • The AED operator/rescuer will follow the AED voice/visual prompts. • Once the AED is attached, do not remove or turn off the unit until directed by either the UTMB Code Team or Galveston EMS. • UTMB Police or Building CPR Team will use AED Emergency Box Key to turn off and on the alarm. NOTE: see building representative for additional key • Call Clinical Equipment Services (CES) 409-747-6143 to perform a maintenance check and to place the AED back in operation. Scheduled on-going maintenance will, also, be provided by CES. • Area EMS will provide UTMB with a patient case summary, if requested.

References

IHOP Policy 9.13.1 Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation-Calling a Code 99 IHOP Policy 9.13.31 Activation of the Rapid Response Team (RRT) AED Risk Insights, “Selected Texas AED Laws” IHOP Policy 9.13.33 LIFEPAK 20 Shock Advisory System