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Medical ConsumablesDefibrillators (AEDs) for Home Use
An ambulance can take over 10 minutes to arrive in an emergency, and as research shows, the rate of survival decreases by 7-10% every minute defibrillation is not carried out. For someone who is at a greater risk of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA), having an Automated External Defibrillator, or AED, in their home can greatly increase their chances of survival if the worst should happen.
Do Homes Have Defibrillators (AEDs)?
Some UK homes will have a defibrillator. AEDs are most commonly supplied to those who are known to have a higher risk of SCA and are awaiting surgery to fit an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD).
Otherwise, an individual may choose to place an AED outside their home to help their local community.
Is There A Requirement for Homes to Have a Defibrillator?
No, there are no legal requirements for a home to have a defibrillator. If a doctor recommends that you have an AED, then you will need to work with your local hospital to secure one or purchase one yourself, depending on the suggestion by your medical team.
Or, if you have suffered a heart attack in the past, then you may want to choose to have a defibrillator as a precautionary method. Out of hospital cardiac arrests most commonly happen in the home, with 70% of all out of hospital cardiac arrests taking place at home.
When Would My Home Need a Defibrillator (AED)?
If you or a family member is at high risk of cardiac arrest, or have had a heart attack in the past, then your home may need a defibrillator.
Otherwise, there is no need or legal requirement for private homes to need a defibrillator (AED).
Where Should I Place My Defibrillator (AED) in My Home?
An AED should be as centrally located as possible. If there are stairs in your home, place your defibrillator at either the top or bottom of the stairs to ensure someone can easily access it whether upstairs or downstairs.
Make sure it is labelled, and has a history of maintenance with it, in case a neighbour or passer by requires its use.
Can You Get a Grant for a Defibrillator (AED)?
Depending on your needs, your hospital team may be able to provide you with information on grants available to you, or whether you can get an AED subsidised.
However, if you are looking to purchase one without the advice of a medical team, then you will need to self-fund in most cases.
Speak to Aero Healthcare for Your Defibrillator Needs
Aero Healthcare are the UK Master Distributor for HeartSine Technologies Samaritan Defibrillators, the only defibrillators manufactured in the United Kingdom. Speak to us today, and we can advise on the best AED for your home.
