Use of automated external defibrillators in the occupational setting in Germany: A pilot study

OBJECTIVE: Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are widely used to increase survival of patients with sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Despite these experiences only few data exist dealing with SCA at the workplace or AED usage in the occupational setting. METHODS: In a pilot study, occupational physicians throughout Germany were contacted and queried about the utilization of AED and the primary success rate (return of spontaneous circulation; ROSC). RESULTS: Of 232 occupational physicians, 155 (67%) stated that the enterprise provided at least one AED. Overall, 63 AED utilizations were analyzed. An ROSC was reported in 42 patients (67%). In 48% (n = 20) ROSC was established before the arrival of the EMS. CONCLUSION: Our study showed a high proportion of patients with ROSC after SCA. Increased attention should be turned to workplace SCA and AED programs.