Automated External Defibrillators

Automated external defibrillators, or AEDs, are electronic devices designed to recognize cardiac arrhythmias and treat them through defibrillation, an electrical therapy shock that allows the heart to reestablish its proper rhythm. Modern AEDs are designed to administer the shock only if an abnormal rhythm is detected, and will prompt the user with step-by-step audible or visual cues.

AED locations

The UW Police Department (UWPD) officers carry AEDs in their vehicles on the Seattle campus; all officers are trained in their use.

While there are some exceptions, state and local law does not require AEDs be provided in buildings; University units and departments may purchase their own.

To locate the nearest AED to your location, you can download the PulsePoint AED application for your smartphone (available for free download for Apple and Android phones). Both versions allow the user to upload AED locations and include basic information such as hours of operation, specific location of AED, and even a photo of the unit. 

You can also view a map of AED locations in King County.

EH&S responsibilities

EH&S provides oversight to ensure the University complies with the provisions of RCW 70.54.310 including:

  • Procurement of AEDs
  • Medical direction (instructions on use)
  • Registration of AEDs
  • Training
  • Maintenance
  • Reporting use

EH&S maintains AED information on its website and serves as the point of contact to assist organizational units wishing to procure AEDs.

To locate the AED nearest your building, or if you have an existing AED and want to confirm it is in the University inventory, contact EH&S.

Procedures for procuring an AED

View or download the Procedures for Procuring an AED.

The University does not provide central funding for AED purchase or maintenance.

Organizational units wishing to purchase an AED must budget for both the device and required maintenance.

Prior approval from EH&S for the procurement of an AED is not required.

Recommended maintenance contracts

For Seattle campus AED maintenance services, contact UW Scientific Instruments at 206.543.5580.

Scientific Instruments can provide needed maintenance checks, order supplies and provide a “loaner” device if a unit must be taken out of service. If you use your AED, call Scientific Instruments to service the unit prior to placing it back in service. 

 

Recommended devices

Many companies produce quality AEDs. Select a device that has premarket approval (PMA-510(k)) from the FDA. When considering a brand and model, consider ongoing maintenance and replacement part costs, and the total cost of buying and maintaining your unit(s).

UW Scientific Instruments has replacement parts and experience maintaining Phillips products. Currently, UWPD uses Phillips HeartStart models.

Reporting AED Use

Whenever an AED is opened and applied to a person, contact the local public health agency.  In Seattle call the King County Community AED Program Manager at 206.296.4693.  This is a critical step for you to take in assisting the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system to improve medical care and treatment from sudden cardiac arrest and increase chances of survival.  Modern AEDs can provide a printout of a patient's heart rhythms pre- and post-shock.  Responding EMS crews may take the unit when transporting a patient or contact a user for follow up to retrieve this information.

More Information