The Irish Medicines Board (IMB) has published a leaflet providing advice to people on how to correctly maintain an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) so that, in the event it is needed in an emergency, it works effectively. AEDs can improve a person’s survival chances following sudden cardiac arrest when used in an emergency situation. However, the IMB stated that it is imperative that the AED is maintained, stored and serviced correctly to ensure it is always in good working order. The IMB’s leaflet was produced in light of the increased availability of AEDs in Ireland over the past number of years and a notable increase in the number of reports received by the IMB indicating an AED device has not been in good working order. Whilst the number of reports is low, they have increased from 4 in 2007 to 10 reports received in 2010. This leaflet is freely available from the IMB and offers practical advice to non-medical owners and users. It will be of interest to all sports clubs, gyms, community groups, shopping centres, schools and business that have or plan to have an AED on their premises.
The Automated External Defibrillator leaflet is available for download from www.imb.ie. Printed copies can also be requested by calling the IMB directly on 01 6764971.