Use of automated external defibrillators in Spain: past, present and future

Socorro Santana F

This article takes a historical view of the science of resuscitation, particularly with regard

to the devices that have led to the greatest successes: automated external defibrillators.

Discussed are the first known attempts at defibrillation, the advances made possible

through basic science, and the contributions of industry and technology in responding

to clinical needs. Future progress that technology will bring, and features already

available on some devices, include built-in global positioning systems and guidance in

the form of recorded voice prompts and feedback to help the user. Finally, also discussed

is the creation of public access defibrillation programs, which have tripled the survival

rates by putting automated external defibrillators into the lay bystander’s hands. These

projects have led to the most important advances in the treatment of cardiac arrest since

the advent of modern cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the 1950s.

Socorro Santana F