Equipping public spaces with AEDs is essential and feasible in Vietnam, said Dr. Pham Dang Hai, head of the internal medicine and toxicology resuscitation department at 108 Military Central Hospital, on 7/8. Many sudden cardiac arrests occur outside hospitals, often in workplaces, schools, and residential areas. In these situations, time is of the essence. Without prompt CPR and defibrillation, victims can die within minutes due to lack of oxygen to the brain.

Ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia are leading causes of sudden cardiac arrest. Timely defibrillation is the only effective way to restore normal heart rhythm. If defibrillation is administered within the first 3-5 minutes, the survival rate can reach 50-70%.

If an ambulance takes 10-15 minutes to arrive, the chance of survival is almost zero unless someone intervenes on the spot. Studies show that out-of-hospital cardiac arrest victims have a 2-3 times higher chance of survival if they receive CPR combined with AED use compared to CPR alone.

Colonel Dr. Nguyen Van Tan, head of the emergency department at 175 Military Hospital, agreed, stating that emergency care is a race against time, requiring swift and precise action within the "golden hour." A delayed step or incorrect procedure can mean the difference between life and death.

Modern AEDs are designed to be user-friendly, even for individuals without medical training. They automatically analyze heart rhythm, provide voice-guided instructions, and only shock when a dangerous rhythm is detected, ensuring safety. Placing AEDs in public places is an effective and humane life-saving strategy, entirely feasible with proper training, guidance, and maintenance.

An automated external defibrillator (AED) can save lives during sudden cardiac arrest. Photo: Le Phuong

An automated external defibrillator (AED) can save lives during sudden cardiac arrest. Photo: Le Phuong

Developed countries like Japan, South Korea, Singapore, the US, and European nations have successfully implemented this model. AEDs are installed in high-traffic areas like airports, train stations, supermarkets, schools, residential areas, and sports centers, integrated into their emergency medical services systems.

Many countries have also developed mobile apps to locate the nearest AED and mobilize volunteers or medical personnel for timely assistance. Integrating first aid and AED training into school curriculums is another crucial factor. Many countries mandate this training for students from secondary school onwards.

Australian paramedic Tony Coffey told VnExpress that Australia has equipped public spaces with AEDs for over 25 years, with increasing numbers contributing to thousands of lives saved when combined with CPR. Using both AEDs and CPR significantly increases a patient's chances of survival.

"Equipping public spaces with AEDs is an urgent need in Vietnam, along with a strategy to train the public in first aid. Having AEDs without knowing how to use them is a waste," Coffey said.

Expert Trang Jenna Nguyen from Survival Skills Vietnam (SSVN) demonstrates how to use an AED in conjunction with CPR to save someone experiencing cardiac arrest. Video: Le Phuong

Vietnam faces a significant challenge with the rising incidence of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and a lack of first aid skills among the public. Experts recommend specific policies to install AEDs in public areas, accompanied by a clear legal framework outlining usage guidelines, authorized personnel, and associated legal responsibilities.

Public training programs on AED use and CPR are also essential. This will contribute to a rapid emergency response system, increasing the chances of survival for victims from the first critical minutes.

Associate Professor Dr. Do Van Dung, former head of public health at Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy, emphasized that training is not overly complex with a structured approach. Realistic simulations, led by qualified instructors who provide accurate feedback, are crucial for building confidence. Regular practice, ideally every 12 months, improves proficiency and reduces hesitation in real-life scenarios.

Dr. Hai believes the biggest challenge for AED implementation in Vietnam lies not in the equipment itself, but in public awareness, skills, and willingness to provide first aid. However, implementation is feasible with a suitable roadmap and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Dr. Hai proposed three key solutions: First, pilot programs in high-risk, high-literacy, easily accessible areas, prioritizing major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and crowded places like airports, train stations, shopping malls, industrial zones, universities, and apartment complexes. AEDs should include simple instructions with clear illustrations.

Second, community training through short courses on CPR and AED use for security guards, teachers, building staff, volunteers, and integration into school curriculums from secondary school onwards. Public awareness campaigns should promote the idea that "anyone can save a life."

Finally, establishing a legal framework and inter-agency coordination, including clear regulations on AED installation in public spaces and legal protection for first aid providers to alleviate fear of intervention. A network of community first aid volunteers connected through a hotline or mobile app can shorten response times.

Le Nga - Le Phuong