defibulator

Taggo

They are 'fairly' idiot proof, however delivering a shock when required without checking various things can do harm. Patches, piercings, pacemakers, pools of water (all the p's) are just some!

Don't want to end up shocking yourself

If you get one, do a course!

Kynthia

Taggo wrote: »

They are 'fairly' idiot proof, however delivering a shock when required without checking various things can do harm. Patches, piercings, pacemakers, pools of water (all the p's) are just some!

Don't want to end up shocking yourself

If you get one, do a course!

Yes, you need to check that the area the patient is in doesn't contain any gases, liquids or metals. Also make sure no one is in contact with the patient, even if it's just the zip from their opened top. Plus if the patient has a very hairy chest you need to use the razor, and the pads are applied differently than instructed for children and those with wounds, piercings and drug patches in the way.

So you can see a one day course in their use is very useful, even though it's possible to use them without one.

PenguinJim

Kynthia wrote: »

Yes, you need to check that the area the patient is in doesn't contain any gases, liquids or metals.

I would like to hear how this is accomplished.

Taggo

PenguinJim wrote: »

I would like to hear how this is accomplished.

Liquids an metals straightforward. The gases I assume they mean oxygen, cylinders should be moved away while delivering a shock.

lavandergirl_2

Why not book the family for a CPR training? Ít buys time until paramedics arrive.

This is a good app
https://life-saver.org.uk

BrassicWoman

I think becoming first aiders *first* would be more useful. And once you are, get trained in any kit you buy!

http://www.sja.org.uk/sja/training-courses/first-aid-courses/defibrillator-and-cpr.aspx

Reggie_Rebel

I've got my own, it's knocked my heart back into a normal three types through therapy and countless times through pacing.

I'd advise anyone to get on a course to learn how to use them.

Attain_by_suprise

The community i live in has a defib available for anyone should it be needed. If you are in a small community have you thought about starting a community fundraiser to buy one? They did it here and it is very reassuring to know that if anyone needs it, someone local is available 24/7 with the skills to use it and can be on the scene in a matter of minutes before the emergency services arrive.

Stephb1986_2

They are pretty simple to use I did an emergency first aid course a few months ago which we were trained on how to use them. I think they are a fantastic bit of equipment and a lot more places should have them

KiKi

I genuinely don't understand the connection between having a large family and a defibrillator...?!

I think learning CPR and first aid are far more important than a defib - but if you can do that already then I guess there's no harm. It really wouldn't occur to me to have one, though, any more than I'd need an oxygen tank or a shot of adrenalin ready.