The start of a new year brings new goals and motivation for many-Â signing up for gyms across the country to burn off those surplus Christmas calories.
It is vital to ensure that a maintained Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is on premises to protect gym goers against cardiac arrest. But which is the best defibrillator for gyms?
What is an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)?
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED)Â is a life saving device designed to deliver a shock to someone who is suffering a cardiac arrest. Modern AEDs are portable and can be seen in many public spaces such as train stations, shopping centres and vitaly – gyms.Â
AEDs are designed to be simple enough to use that anyone responding to a cardiac arrest would be able to use them, as in this situation every second is key and a medical professional may not be available.
What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)?
Sudden Cardiac Arrest refers to the sudden cessation of an effective heart rhythm, causing immediate loss of consciousness and breathing to stop. The most common cause of SCA is an irregular heart rhythm called Ventricular Fibrillation, this is where the hearts’ chambers quiver in an unorganised way, meaning blood isn’t being pumped effectively .
Death will occur within minutes of Sudden Cardiac Arrest without Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and an AED. Bystanders and witnesses to a cardiac arrest must act immediately to allow the casualty the best chance at survival. There must also be an AED in close proximity to the casualty collapsing so that it can be retrieved quickly.
Currently in the UK, less than 1 in 10 people survive an Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrest (OHCA).Â
Why are AEDs so important in a gym setting?
An Automated External Defibrillator is necessary in any location where the public gathers, but especially vital in areas of exercise and sports. These activities place a strain on the body and the heart, and can increase the likelihood of Sudden Cardiac Arrest.
For every minute someone in cardiac arrest is not given CPR and an AED shock, their chances of survival decreases by 10%. If a shock is delivered within 3-5 minutes off collapse, survival rates can be as high as 74%.
Having a ready-to-use AED on site at the gym rather than off site, can mean the difference between life and death.
Which AED is most suited to a gym environment?
When considering the best defibrillator for gyms and other exercise environments, portability, ease of use and water resistance should be among the highest priorities.
All modern defibrillators are designed to be small enough that they can easily be carried, and simple enough that anyone can use them.
Among the easiest defibrillators to carry are the Heartsine Samaritan series of units, including the 350P, 360P, and 500P. All of these defibrillators come in a handy carry case and weigh less than 1.5kg
One of the most popular defibrillators in gyms around the UK is the Cardiac Science Powerheart G5. The G5 was designed to be rugged and durable, making it perfect for active environments.
As well as this, the Powerheart G5 has a IP55 ingress rating against dust and water for performance in harsh and challenging environments such as around a pool or in the vicinity of heavy weights.
Another advantage of the G5 defibrillator is the CPRD model, which provides real time CPR feedback for a responder. This feedback will advise to “Push harder”, “Push faster”, or say “Good compressions”.
Another suitable unit for gyms is the Primedic HeartSave, this small defibrillator comes in two models. The semi-automatic Y model and the fully automatic YA model.
One of the key features of the HeartSave is that the defibrillator quickly powers on and begins advising the responder as soon as the lid is opened.
These defibrillators also have a high IP55 rating against water and dust, as well as benefitting from a Adult/Child button. Suitable for gyms/leisure centres and swimming pools where children may be around, allowing to switch between adult and child mode without changing pads.
