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The following steps are designed to assist in the implementation of an AED program and help preserve the principle of continuity of emergency patient care. Once 911 is called every person treated with an AED at a public site will become the responsibility of EMS personnel, the EMS system, and the system’s medical directors and subsequent care providers.
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Acquire an AED
AEDs can be purchased by the general public through medical supply companies or online vendors. They are manufactured and sold under guidelines approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and may require a physician's prescription for the device. Get a prescription from a physician or osteopath of your choice, or request a prescription free of charge from King County Emergency Medical Services. Choosing an AED can be confusing. There are several AEDs on the market that can meet the needs of your company or organization. King County EMS does not recommend one device or vendor over another. Taking into consideration the unique needs and circumstances of your organization will help you choose the “right” AED.
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Acquire Medical Direction
Acquire guidance on how to use your AED by getting Medical Direction from a physician of your choice, or requesting Medical Direction free of charge from the Seattle or King County EMS Medical Director.
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Register your AED
Register your AED(s) so 911 dispatchers can quickly direct a caller to the location of the nearest AED. Please report any changes to your AED registration information (device, location, site coordinator information, etc.).
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Get AED training
Provide training to a reasonable number employees, staff, or family members on CPR/AED use, consistent with national standards for CPR and AED use.
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Assign a site coordinator
Select a site coordinator to oversee your AED program.
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Develop a maintenance plan
Develop a plan for regular checks and maintenance of your device consistent with the manufacturer's guidelines, including routine check of battery operation and replacement of expired chest pads.
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What to do after using an AED
Contact King County Emergency Medical Services (EMS), as soon as possible after an AED use, even if no shock was delivered (required in King County, per RCW 70.54.310). Contact aed@kingcounty.gov or 206-296-4693. If you use an AED management company, please contact EMS first.
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Site visits
Site visits can be provided by local fire departments or King County EMS if you need help with deciding:
- How many AEDs you need for your building
- Where AEDs should be placed in your building
- What level of accessibility the AED should have
- How to keep the AED secure
To arrange a site visit, contact Laura Miccile, CPR/PAD Program Manager, at 206-477-8664 or at laura.miccile@kingcounty.gov
- How many AEDs you need for your building
AED program implementation resources
- Selecting an AED
- AHA On-site AED Program Implementation Guide
- Semi-Automatic external defibrillator- Duty of acquirer - Immunity from civil liability, RCW- 70. 54.310
- Public Access Defibrillator Information and Guidelines, WA State Dept. of Health