Louis Schneider 
Why buy a defibrillator?
A new generation of devices: intelligent defibrillators
Intervention using semi-automatic and automatic defibrillators has become increasingly popular in recent years. Many public places are now equipped with intelligent defibrillators. Municipalities and agglomerations also install these devices at strategic points. Companies are equipping their premises with defibrillators to protect their employees and customers. Always with the aim of intervening quickly in the event of a heart attack and increasing the victim’s survival rate.
Almost 8,000 people suffer cardiopulmonary arrest or cardiac arrest every year in Switzerland. Only 5 to 10% of victims survive. Immediate first aid and treatment, together with cardiac massage and the use of intelligent defibrillators, greatly increase the chances of survival.
It is estimated that the survival rate rises from 66.5 to 90% if the use of an intelligent defibrillator is initiated within minutes of the victim’s heart attack.
Automatic external defibrillators are intelligent devices. Easy to use, they can be handled by the general public even without training. You don’t need to be an ambulance driver, a doctor or have undergone any training. The device dictates by voice all the steps to be followed by the rescuer. Some devices, such as the Zoll AED plus, even feature sensors to help the rescuer apply the correct chest compressions during CPR.
Of course, training is always a plus if you want to be able to act quickly in such situations. Because every minute counts.
