- 11 -
Designed with the aid of latest computer technology, the device is a paramedic equipment which can generate electric-shock and monitor irregular heartbeat. It has been developed to increase the survival rate of cardiac arrest cases.
"Complementary to the basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) technique, AEDs increase the chance of recovery of those who suffer from cardiac arrests due to cases such as heart attacks, drowning or electric shocks," said Mr Chan Shing-wah, Operations and Training Officer of AMS.
"AEDs will help analyse the state of the heart. No electric shock will be needed if the heart is in normal sound rhythm. However, if ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardiac (abnormal sound rhythm) of the heart is detected, this new device will instruct medical staff that an electric-shock is required and give them indication to administer the operation.
I
"By using its electric charge to disrupt the irregular heartbeat (fibrillation) of the patients, the AED allows the heart's natural electrical activities to function correctly and helps it return to normal heartbeat.
"After providing the necessary medical treatment to the injured on the spot, AMS members will, with no delay, convey the casualties to hospitals," added Mr Chan.
"Speedy paramedic treatment on-the-spot to the injured, particularly for those suffering from heart problem, is very important to eliminate the chance of complication. In acute cases, it could be a matter of life and death as every minute counts."
At present, in addition to the 12 AEDs newly-purchased, AMS owns a total of 16 sets of AEDs.
Mr Chan noted that with the new acquisition, AED has become a standard equipment on all the AMS ambulances. Four sets have been assigned to the Emergency Response Task Force which provides on-the-spot paramedic service to the public round-the-clock.
Very shortly, all the six AMS motor-cycles will be modified to equip with such device for providing first-aid coverage for community events like the Walks for Million, Fireworks Display and for rendering better first-aid services to picnickers at country parks during weekends and public holidays.