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AED (Automated External Defibrillator) Program
Contact: Maurine G. Claver, mgc3@psu.edu814-865-6391
Cardiovascular disease is the major cause of death in the US, resulting in nearly one million deaths a year. Nearly half of these deaths are sudden and unexpected. Most occur outside the hospital, and survival rates have traditionally been poor, with only 1-5% of these patients estimated to survive to hospital discharge. Most persons experiencing cardiac arrest have no history of severe heart disease, and sudden cardiac death is frequently the first manifestation of cardiovascular disease. Early defibrillation is critical to survival from sudden cardiac arrest and several research studies have documented the effect of time to defibrillation and bystander CPR on survival. This information led to the development of University Safety Policy SY22 – Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in 2001 and revised in 2009. This policy provides for the purchase, use and placement of AEDs in University facilities and vehicles.
This page has been developed to provide assistance for University work units and individuals who have an AED in their area of jurisdiction, are considering the purchase of an AED, or are required to have an AED. It includes relevant policies and links for obtaining further information. According to the Penn State Safety Policy SY22, any Penn State department or administrative unit planning to purchase, use or maintain an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) must prepare a “Plan to use an AED.” This Plan must be submitted to Environmental Health and Safety for review and approval prior to the purchase of the AED.
This “Plan” must address medical oversight, use, training, location and maintenance of units. EHS will review the submittals, provide assistance in Plan preparation, provide written approval to the requesting department or unit, and will assess the effectiveness of the overall AED program.
Listing of locations of AEDs at Penn State
Services Offered
- Assistance in determining the need for an AED at a particular work unit or location
- Assistance in the development of the Plan to use an AED.
Program Support Information
Policies
Guideline
More Information
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