* Paul wrote, On 4/9/2007 4:59 AM:
....

I beleive their now about $1500 and not very big at all.

So what is the prognosis for the typical defib parient? Prior to last
summer's trip from California to Hawaii and back, I discussed heart attack
care with a doctor, and he wasn't too optimistic. He told me that unless
the patient could receive prompt follow-up treatment, the odds of a
successful recovery were pretty bad. Since we were at worst many days away
from outside medical help, I didn't pursue the defib unit (and some of the
crew were old enough that it might have been warranted).

Any opinions?


Funny, I got the opposite advice. My doctor said that since we do
almost entirely coastal cruising, we wouldn't be so far from help that
it would make a difference. I don't know if he didn't appreciate how
long it might take to get help to even a mooring, or if he thought it
would give a false sense of security that might dis-incentivate
proper exercise, of if they didn't work at all.

The cost is falling - the small Phillips units are about $1200, but
the discount rate on ebay seems to be $950. Unfortunately, my health
insurance is so expensive, I can't afford it.

As for training, there isn't much to it, but it would be appropriate
to take a one day first aid/cpr class with the Red Cross, etc. This
does include an hour or so on the proper use of the gadget - probably
worthwhile if you ever had to use one.