Letter: Dismayed by lack of defibrillator knowledge

SIR – I was surprised and somewhat dismayed reading the article regarding the stricken cyclist at Brockenhurst (A&T, 27th August).

Obviously the fate of the stricken cyclist is a concern but also the inability of the persons rendering assistance to utilise the defibrillator.

A defibrillator will actually talk any user through how to use it, they are certainly nothing to be fearful of. It is as simple as following the instructions in the order given. The defibrillator will not allow the user to shock the casualty if it is not required.

I would urge everyone to access training for using a defibrillator in order to give them the confidence to utilise one where available.

I was impressed by the ability to perform CPR for 20 minutes as it is really exhausting when performed properly and it is sad to say that the use of a defibrillator may have made quite a difference to the probable outcome to the casualty.

I think that everyone should undertake basic CPR training together with defibrillator training and I would go so far as to say that it should be a part of the National Curriculum.

Gareth Wynne,
Lyndhurst