Improving the availability of Defibrillators with NFC
A case study
Publically available Defibrillators
In the ye
ars since their introduction, the use of AEDs by lay persons has proved so successful that fears have since been expressed a business may be found negligent should a member of the public suffer irrevocable from a cardiac arrest while on the premises because they did not provide an AED. So far there have been no cases in the UK brought against those who have not equipped themselves with AEDs. There is currently no legislation in the UK which obliges certain businesses or premises to provide an AED, but under English law, there can be liability in negligence for failing to take appropriate safety precautions on your premises. (source: http://www.realfirstaid.co.uk).
However the negligence for a failing defibrillator can be a different matter. Often the publically available defibrillators are installed and ‘forgotten’. They may not work properly due to lack of maintenance as many producers warn; poor working electrodes or empty batteries are a common fact (Medisol BV, 2016).
With the increase in publically available AEDs (Automated External Defibrillator) together with a heightened public awareness of employers’ responsibility to ensure adequate First Aid provision, it is often asked in an emergency where the nearest AED is available and what the status of its maintenance is. Public expectations are that the AED is instantly located and recognisable and it status of maintenance updated.
Is there a solution to this problem?
A step forwards can be a Web-App in which the near-by AED’s are visualised. By identifying each AED with a RFID (NFC) chip the position can be allocated to a geographical location whilst installing the unit.
Adding information such as producer, type and serial number, as well as service interval, can add value and increase service levels to the public.
How it works
The domed disc contains a pre-programmed NFC tag which, when scanning with a Smart-Phone or other NFC device, opens the Web-App. After logging in, the operator can allocate the geographical location form his/her phone to the tag information, upgrade the status or report a service interval being performed.
The RFIDdirect Cloud based Application Manager can generate reports and a warning email for the maintenance department when a battery set needs to be replaced or at least checked. After each service visit the NFC tag is ticked with the Smart-Phone and the information or status updated.
The general public can be made aware of the Web-App – there is no download required – by scanning a QR-code on several positions at the premises. Scanning the QR-code will open the Web-App on any Smart Phone and automatically identify the geographical location of the mobile phone in relation to the nearest available AED.
The Dutch ‘Hartstichting’ (Heart Foundation) estimates that as little as 10 out of 80 units are centrally recorded; this statistic should be far higher to create a network to save lives more effectively.
What can RFIDdirect offer in this?
RFIDdirect can supply the complete system. Our Cloud base Application Manager can provide the accurate data for the Web-App (we can provide this too) and a complete service monitoring and reporting system in the background for the service operators.
The technology is available and proven. If you’re a caretaker organisation, you can implement this solution at your own premises, at a multi store shopping mall, or any building where you’re responsible for the general maintenance and safety.
A joint partner approach with all stake holders is essential to create a nationwide solution.
If you would like to discuss the potential application, no matter how big or small, we are here to help.
You can telephone us on 0845 249 0068(UK),
alternatively on 02821 748 3030 (Germany),
or email us via info@rfiddirect.eu
We are looking forward to hearing from you.
