Essential Role Of AEDs On Ships: Enhancing Survival Rates In Cardiac Emergencies

The article underscores the critical role of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on ships for increasing survival rates during cardiac emergencies. Given that cardiac arrest is often fatal within minutes without immediate intervention, AEDs can help bridge the gap between onboard care and hospital treatment, particularly since most ships lack extensive medical facilities or trained personnel.

Key points

1. Impact of Cardiac Arrest and AED Benefits:
   • Cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death, claiming up to 4 million lives globally each year. The survival rate for cardiac arrest outside a hospital is less than 10% without prompt CPR and AED use.
   • Using CPR in conjunction with an AED can boost survival chances to 70% by restoring the heart’s rhythm and maintaining blood flow, especially to the brain, until more advanced medical help arrives.
2. Current Maritime Regulations:
   • There is no international or national mandate requiring ships to carry AEDs. Despite the device’s life-saving potential and simplicity, each operator decides whether to include it in their medical supplies.
3. AED Operation:
   • AEDs are portable, battery-powered devices that deliver an electric shock to correct abnormal heart rhythms. They are designed to be intuitive, providing voice prompts to guide users through delivering a shock if needed.
   • Steps for AED Use include:
     • Immediately call for medical help.
     • Start CPR while retrieving the AED.
     • Turn on the AED, follow the voice prompts, and clear the casualty’s chest to attach the electrode pads.
     • Ensure no one touches the patient during AED assessment.
     • If advised, deliver the shock, then continue CPR as instructed.
4. Training and Familiarity:
   • Although AEDs require no specialized training, familiarity and basic training can boost crew members’ confidence to act quickly and correctly.
   • It’s important to overcome any hesitations regarding patient privacy, as swift action is crucial for survival.

The recommendation for AEDs on all vessels is clear: They significantly raise survival rates in emergencies, allowing seafarers a better chance of reaching medical facilities.