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ARE YOU READY? Preparing to use an automated external defibrillator could save a Wingman’s life

  • Published
  • By Brandice J. Armstrong
  • Tinker Public Affairs
TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla., --  "What-if" questions typically go hand-in-hand with emergency-scenario conversations. Should such a conversation sway toward defibrillation, automated external defibrillators and installation policies, Tinker personnel can provide clear answers.

Both the 72nd Air Base Wing's Public Access Defibrillation program office and the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center Staff Judge Advocate office are fluent in the topic. They can also address questions about when to use an AED, its proper use and liability issues. But, among the most important tips they can provide is only those certified in AED and Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, should use a defibrillator, because they are the only ones protected by Oklahoma law should something go wrong.

"Only those certified and trained to use it should use an AED," said Marcus Brown, installation PAD base coordinator. The PAD program's purpose is to familiarize and ensure already-trained AED personnel are comfortable using a defibrillator. "If you're not trained to use it, you can assist by calling EMS or retrieving the AED."

Defibrillation shocks the heart and attempts to correct an irregular heartbeat should an individual suffer a sudden cardiac arrest. While the success rates for an AED are promising if used immediately and correctly, a defibrillator will only send a charge on two kinds of irregular and potentially fatal heartbeats - ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia. The machine will not permit a charge for any other kind of heartbeat.

But, for defibrillation to be the most successful, four steps should be taken as soon as an unconscious individual is noticed.

"Someone calls [emergency medical services] early, someone initiates CPR early, early defibrillator use [is applied, plus] early advanced care, which is the EMS personnel arriving on the scene," Mr. Brown said. "Also, AED is not intended to replace CPR, but rather should be used in conjunction with it."

At Tinker, there are roughly 255 AEDs in 74 buildings. Mr. Brown said in the past two years, there have been five incidents in which a defibrillator was used.

Oklahoma's Good Samaritan Law only protects those trained to use an AED from civil liability should something go wrong. If an individual without proper training uses an AED, that person can be found at fault and may be liable should harm result from using the device, according to Oklahoma law.

"Based upon Oklahoma Good Samaritan law, we need to make sure as many people are trained as possible," said Maj. Thomas Condie, OC-ALC Legal Office chief of General Law.

Editor's note: Look for an upcoming article highlighting how readiness, preparation, AED technology and the Wingman ethos came together to save the life of a Team Tinker member.