"Evidence from 1 study of fair quality ...and a case series... indicated higher rates of survival to hospital discharge when AEDs were used to treat adult VF or pulseless VT in the hospital" (p. IV-39)

"Despite limited evidence, AEDs should be considered for the hospital setting as a way to facilitate early defibrillation (a goal of <3 minutes from collapse); especially in areas where staff has no rhythm recognition skills or defibrillators are used infrequently." (p. IV-39)

The LIFEPAK 20 defibrillator/monitor is uniquely designed to look and act like an AED so that BLS responders can easily deliver early defibrillation—while providing full manual capabilities to ALS responders upon arrival. For a view of how this can work on the general floor, click here.

The authors of the Guidelines recognize that, in unmonitored beds, significant time may elapse before defibrillation can be provided. The Guidelines recommend AEDs be considered for such areas, so that BLS responders can provide defibrillation without waiting for the centralized response team to arrive.

"...first-responding personnel should also receive authorization and training to use an AED..." (p. IV-39).

"Early defibrillation capability should be available in ambulatory care facilities as well as throughout hospital inpatient areas". (p. IV-39)

"Hospitals should monitor collapse-to-first shock intervals and resuscitation outcomes" (p. IV-39)

The "three minute rule" still applies. No class recommendations given for in-hospital or ambulatory care AED use, despite the endorsement.