Ed and Trumpy:
what you are referring to is called an saed unit. it is a semi automatic external defibrilator. It senses the hearts arrythmias (ventricular fib)or asystolie(flatline)it only allows the patient to be shocked only when it will do benefit to the patient. otherwise it instructs the bystander or operator to do cpr and it often gives assistance by speaking out the instructions for those who are panicked by the events that are happening. I Was an EMT for 6 years and had to be trained on the use of these when they were brand new(back in the 80's. They have only gotten better with time and are now even more dependable than when i was using them daily. there was a group at the college trying to get them installed at the college, for use there. there is a small training course 2-3 hours for people to become very proficient in their use.
[This message has been edited by sparkystudent (edited 07-18-2004).]
