FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) regarding AEDs:

View Tennessee AED Law (updated 6/1/07)
View Tennessee Good Samaritan Law (updated 6/1/07)
 

Is my business or  organization legally obligated to purchase an AED?

In the state of Tennessee, aside from specific medical agencies (EMS, etc.), there is no obligation  to purchase or maintain an AED.

Where should AEDs be placed?

AEDs may be purchased for home use but this is rare.  Ideally, AEDs should be located in areas that accommodate large volumes of people:  gyms, airports, theaters, physician’s offices, schools, churches, and shopping malls.

Is there a chance the AED will “accidentally” shock a victim that did not actually need the shock?

No, an AED is programmed to deliver a shock only when it detects a very specific heart rhythm (ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia).  Unless one of these rhythms is detected, it will not deliver a shock.

Can other rescuers or I be shocked accidentally?

Yes, but safe operation of the device is taught and stressed during the training course.  In fact, most of the devices even have a voice feature that reminds the rescuer to keep away from the victim while the device administers the shock. 

Can I be sued if I use the AED to help save a victim of cardiac arrest?

State and federal “Good Samaritan Laws” cover rescuers who, in good faith and without gross negligence, attempt to save a person’s life.  To date, there are no known judgements against anyone who used an AED to save someone’s life.  But there have been instances where businesses were successfully sued for failure to provide an AED. 

Can I still use the device in the event of battery failure?

Most of the devices have a visual gauge to keep you advised of the battery life.  It is highly unlikely that a battery will fail during a resuscitation attempt although it is good practice to maintain a spare battery in the case with the AED.

Who is responsible for assuring the battery remains charged and the AED electrode pads are still within date?

Most businesses or organizations simply appoint someone to be responsible for periodic checking of the AED and its equipment.  The vendor that sold the AED may also provide this service for an additional charge.

Are there costs associated with maintaining an AED?

Yes, there are minimal costs and your AED vendor can provide more definite details.  Electrode pads and replacement batteries constitute the bulk of the maintenance costs.

Once purchased, is it necessary to register my AED?

Tennessee law requires registration of the device with the local emergency medical services (EMS) agency or communications district.  In Metropolitan Nashville / Davidson County, you can register your AED online at:

                    http://www.nashfire.org/aed/automatic_external_defibrillator.htm

Do I have to pay to register my AED?

No.