Automatic External Defibrillators: Making The Difference

Defibrillators are devices designed to help someone experiencing cardiac arrest by sending a high-energy electric shock to the heart. This can increase the rate of survival to 70% - the difference between life and death.

The ability to operate a defibrillator is a vital part of first aid training, as it prepares you to respond in the most confident way possible.

The recent mandate requiring all schools to have an accessible defibrillator on-site within the next year is a leap forward in first aid. We’re delighted that such a positive change has been introduced and it’s no mystery why: it makes CPR safer and more effective.

In most instances, CPR can be ineffective if not done with the correct amount of pressure. Plus, in some cases using the correct pressure can lead to broken ribs. A defibrillator can reduce these risks while increasing the likelihood of survival.

Providing first aid in schools goes hand in hand with the requirement for a defibrillator to be on the premises. It’s not only crucial for teachers and medical staff to understand how this equipment operates but also that pupils will be able to help their fellow students and staff members.

Our ‘First aid in Schools’ course is for both staff and pupils to learn the necessary skills to properly administer first aid in an engaging and fun manner using knowledge from experienced experts in the health sector.

Putting first aid, first

At Busy Bees Education and Training, we’ve been passionate advocates of public defibrillators for years. Not only are our sister company Busy Bees’ Nurseries equipped with trained first aiders, but every one of its sites across the UK also has a defibrillator installed, making it safer for children, colleagues and parents.

The hope for the future is that more businesses will also recognise the importance of defibrillators and soon follow in the schools’ footsteps with having the correct first aid equipment on the premises.

Training that works for you

As this video shows, our defibrillators come with both voice and written instructions, providing guidance to someone administering first-aid.

Steve Manifold, a first aid trainer, talks us through how to use the Busy Bees Education and Training-issued defibrillator, how easy the instructional guides are to understand and the importance of having one to hand in emergency situations.