Hi Xas,

Did you know that October marked Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) Awareness Month? This initiative is dedicated to spreading awareness of SCA and the critical need for responders to be ready to perform CPR and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) – these actions can make all the difference between life and death.

In a survey of 1,000 Australians, commissioned by Philips in 2023*, 1 in 7 people indicated they have been in a situation where an AED was needed. However, 74% of people are unaware of the location of one near their home, and 58% don’t know where the nearest AED is at their workplace. Despite over 9 in 10 (95%) Australians believing access to AEDs nearby is important, more than half (51%) lack confidence in their ability to effectively use an AED to respond to someone experiencing sudden cardiac arrest.

With 70% of SCAs occurring in the home, purchasing an AED can help you be prepared to respond to sudden cardiac emergencies in your home** or favourite hangout. Philips HeartStart AEDs are designed to be user-friendly, allowing even those with minimal training to provide quick and effective assistance during SCA by delivering a shock, when needed.

There’s no better time to learn more about SCA, the importance of AEDs, and to ensure you’re equipped to act in the event of a cardiac emergency.

What is an AED and how do I use one?

The Philips HeartStart HS1 guides you through the process of treating a victim of suspected sudden cardiac arrest through real-time guidance, step-by-step voice commands, and CPR guidance.

How ready are you?

Visit our website to learn more and purchase your Philips HeartStart AED with any of our authorised distributors.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use

i) call 000 immediately and ask for an ambulance if you suspect someone has had a sudden cardiac arrest.
ii) an AED will only deliver a shock to a person with a shockable rhythm.
iii) follow any verbal or visual displayed on the AED until medical treatment arrives.
iv) additional emergency treatment such as CRP and rescue breaths may be required until medical treatment arrives.

References
* Philips Survey – “Where is Your AED” Survey Methodology and Findings, November 8, 2023 
** AHA (American Heart Association)