Defibrillators to be made available in public spots

Automated external defibrillators, medical devices used to restore normal heart rhythm to people experiencing cardiac arrest, will be made available in public spaces nationwide, according to a guideline recently released by the National Health Commission.

The decision was announced amid public urging for the need to tackle cardiac emergencies in places like transportation hubs and cultural facilities.

Public venues with large flows of people and relatively enclosed places that lack access to prompt pre-hospital emergency medical AID services will be given priority in deploying the devices.

They should be installed in a fixed position that is conspicuous and both easy to find and access, with standardized signage.

Places already equipped with AEDs should mark them on floor plans and post location information at main entrances and exits, as well in as placement areas for the devices.

A circular issued by the commission’s general office for implementing the guideline also encouraged eligible localities to develop digital maps for AEDs located in their catchment areas in order to make it easier for the public to locate them.

The circular encouraged local authorities to use internet technologies and build remote management systems in order to monitor and manage operations and maintenance in real time.

Local health administrative departments should arrange for qualified individuals to provide technical support in applying and configuring devices, and to carry out training in first aid skills, including the proper use of AEDs, the circular said.