A recent study published in Resuscitation examined the distances between out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) incidents and the locations of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) retrieved by Community First Responders (CFRs) in the Netherlands. Researchers found that, to ensure early AED connection within six minutes, AEDs should be located within approximately 500 meters of any address. This distance is critical, as timely defibrillation significantly improves survival rates in cardiac arrest cases.
The study analyzed data from the Dutch ARREST registry, focusing on cases where CFRs were dispatched to retrieve AEDs. The findings highlight the importance of strategic AED placement within communities to facilitate rapid response times and enhance the effectiveness of CFR programs.
These insights underscore the need for communities to assess and optimize AED distribution to ensure that devices are readily accessible during emergencies. By aligning AED placement with the recommended proximity, communities can improve the chances of survival for individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest.
Access the full paper here.
SOURCE: Resuscitation Journal