Key Steps to Implementing an AED Program

Step 1: Obtain medical oversight

• The role of the physician varies depending on the size of the AED program. Responsibilities of the physician may include:
  • Signing off on or making recommendations on training plans, policies/procedures
  • Evaluating data recorded on an AED during a medical emergency
  • Assessing each use of an AED to recommend any improvements
• A designated program coordinator should be responsible for day-to-day program implementation.

• Most states require you to coordinate your AED program with local EMS and to provide follow-up data to EMS after any use of the AED.
• For states that require registration or an application for AED programs, the physician or program coordinator should complete this process.

• Several AEDs are on the market that are suitable for faith community AED programs; choose one that is simple and easy to use.
• The American Red Cross partners with manufacturers to assist organizations in obtaining an AED.

• Research the history of the manufacturer you are considering for purchase of an AED.
• Contact the manufacturer’s technical support number to assess response time and availability.
• Arrange for technical support when your AED device requires it.

• Some AED manufacturers provide help with program implementation and ongoing support, and can assist with placement, medical authorization, registration, training, and supplies; determine if available services would be helpful in deploying your AED program.

• Effective AED programs are designed to deliver a shock to the victim within three to five minutes of ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia (cardiac arrest); use a three-minute response time as a guideline to help you determine how many AEDs you need for your setting and where the best location is for them.

• AED users should be trained in Basic Life Support/cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and use of the AED.
• Multiple responders in the faith community should be trained in CPR and the use of the AED, and ongoing training can help increase the comfort and confidence level of responders.
• The American Heart Association and American Red Cross offer CPR AED training in a classroom setting and through an eLearning format.

• After initial implementation of the AED program, provide information to all congregants about the AED program.
• Use internal newsletters, posters, magnets, signage, or other means to promote the AED program and identify where the devices are located.
• Continually raising awareness of the program reinforces to congregants that the faith community is committed to their safety.

• Conduct a weekly or monthly visual inspection of the AEDs to ensure the devices are in working order.
  • The program coordinator or another designated person can do the AED inspections.
  • This person develops a written checklist to assess the readiness of the AED and supplies.
  • This checklist supplements regularly scheduled, more detailed inspections, as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Communicate with your manufacturer regularly to get the latest information about software updates or upgrades.