The Importance of Registration and Maintenance of Defibrillators.

Automated External Defibrillators can be vital in saving the life of someone entering cardiac arrest. This is why it is imperative that all AEDs are registered and suitable to use

Many sports organisations across Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland have access to defibrillators and the knowledge of their potentially life-saving significance, as well as their whereabouts, can help save lives.

Although it is encouraging how many facilities are in close proximity to an AED, it is not enough to simply be in possession of them - they must be maintained and registered.

Resources such as The Circuit provide valuable information about registered defibrillators across the UK to the ambulance services. By registering an AED with The Circuit, it is made significantly easier to locate and can therefore be used to administer emergency, life-saving aid.

The British Heart Foundation and St John's Ambulance also stress the importance of servicing AEDs to make sure they are suitable for use. Most modern defibrillators are self-testing and will provide an indication when there is an issue that needs addressing, however, it is recommended that they are checked regularly and serviced by a professional as per manufacturer instructions.

An example of what must be monitored is the expiry dates of the batteries and sticky pads, replacing them if required. St John's Ambulance provide a checklist for effective defibrillator maintenance and provide a Q&A guide to defibrillator maintenance.

While it is desirable that those in use of an AED will have some form of training in their use, The Resuscitation Council UK state that the equipment is safe and ready to use by any untrained bystander. With this in mind, there are numerous resources addressing the use of AEDs as well as training courses, which teach users how to effectively respond if someone has a cardiac arrest.

It is our hope that everyone in Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland will be aware of the resources available around AEDs and, should a life-threatening cardiac situation arise, have the knowledge of how to help. For this to happen, it is imperative that local sports clubs and facilities work collaboratively and do their part by ensuring that their defibrillators are registered and maintained to help facilitate their implementation effectively.

For guidance on how to register an AED, visit The Circuit - the national defibrillator network.