A publicly accessible Automated External Defibrillator (AED) has been installed in Musselburgh Primary Care Centre, offering immediate access to a life-saving device in an emergency.
A publicly accessible Automated External Defibrillator (AED) has been installed into the main foyer area of Musselburgh Primary Care Centre, offering immediate access to a life-saving device in the case of an emergency. 
An AED is a device that can be used to give a high energy electric shock to the heart of someone who is in cardiac arrest.
Fiona Wilson, Chief Officer of East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership explains, “AEDs help save lives. However, having readily available, speedy access to them can make all the difference.
“Musselburgh Primary Care Centre (MPCC) is often called upon to assist in an emergency. Inveresk Medical Practice, Riverside Medical Practice, and the Primary Care Service desks all have defibrillators within their practice areas, however we wanted to provide a publicly accessible device which can be accessed within seconds of arrival at MPCC.
“Anyone can use an AED. It does not have to be a medical professional. Prior training is not required, as the device provides full instructions on how to use it, including pictures indicating where the AED pads should be attached to a person’s skin. The device then checks the heart rhythm and will only tell the operator to administer the shock if it is needed.”
Musselburgh Primary Care Centre’s AED is located within the main hallway, oppose the East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership Primary Care Services and Riverside reception desks.
If you find someone unconscious, unresponsive and not breathing (or not breathing normally e.g. making gasping noises), phone 999 immediately and start CPR. If possible, get somebody to find an AED. The emergency operator can advise of the nearest device to your location.
You can find out more about saving a life, administering CPR and using defibrillators at the British Heart Foundation’s website: www.bhf.org.uk/cpr