Public access defibrillation (PAD) refers to the placement of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in publicly accessible locations and the policy framework that enables trained or untrained members of the public to use them in an emergency. PAD programmes are a crucial part of the chain of survival for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
Why public AEDs save lives
Ventricular fibrillation (VF), the most common shockable rhythm in cardiac arrest, is treatable only by defibrillation. For every minute that passes without defibrillation, survival chances fall by approximately 10%. Ambulances typically take 8 to 10 minutes to arrive in the UK. A public AED, used immediately, can bridge this gap and dramatically increase survival chances before professional help arrives.
How AEDs are designed for public use
Modern AEDs are specifically designed to be used by people with no medical training. They provide clear audio and visual instructions guiding the user through each step, from pad placement to the delivery of a shock. The device analyses the heart rhythm automatically and will only deliver a shock if a shockable rhythm (VF or pulseless VT) is detected. The device cannot shock a person who does not need it.
Where public AEDs are located
In the UK, public AEDs are sited in locations including train stations, airports, shopping centres, supermarkets, sports venues, leisure centres, libraries, and community buildings. The 999 call handler can tell a caller the location of the nearest registered AED. Online maps (such as The Circuit, the national AED network) allow anyone to find their nearest defibrillator.
The Circuit
The Circuit is the national AED network for England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, hosted by the British Heart Foundation. It allows AED owners to register their device so that ambulance services can direct bystanders to it during an emergency. Registering an AED is free and takes only a few minutes.
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