Kentucky AED Laws & Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide

The use of an automated external defibrillator, or AED, can save a life. However, because an AED is a medical device, a state may make laws dealing with its use. Kentucky has specific laws regarding AED use.

Statute

• Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) 311.665-311.669 deal with the use of AEDs. An AED is a device that can analyze cardiac rhythm and charge and deliver shocks with or without an operator when certain rhythms occur.

Requirements to Acquire an AED

• A person or entity must meet certain requirements to acquire an AED, including approved AED training for people who will operate the device. A physician must oversee this training and help develop a testing and maintenance program for the AED. The local emergency service must receive notice of the acquisition of an AED and the type acquired.

Requirements to Use an AED

• An individual that uses an AED must immediately call for additional medical help for the patient. The AED program's physician must receive notice whenever the AED is used.

Civil Liability

• KRS 311.668 states that no one who uses an AED to give emergency treatment in good faith is subject to a civil lawsuit because of the AED use. This exemption also applies to the owner of the AED.

Exempt Professionals

• Some professionals are exempt from the AED requirements. KRS 311.669 lists these professionals, which include physicians, nurses, and paramedics.