Defibrillators to be installed at all NHS dental practices

Defibrillators are to be installed in every Scottish dental practice as the Scottish government aims to boost the survival rate for people who have cardiac arrests.

970 defibrillators will be mapped by ambulance crews so that the call handlers can direct people to the nearest defibrillators while the patient waits for a medical crew to arrive.

It is believed that last year alone 1,500 Scots died after suffering a cardiac arrest. It is hoped that the defibrillator can be used by anyone so that they can deliver a shock to the patient’s chest to help restore their heart to a normal rhythm.

The ministers said that only 5% of those who have a cardiac arrest in the local area will survive and that every minute of delay reduces the chances of their survival. It is hoped that the increase in defibrillators will boost this percentage.

Public Health Minister Michael Matheson said: "Every second counts when someone's heart goes into cardiac arrest and having access to a defibrillator can mean the difference between life and death.

"As these machines are becoming easier to use it is only right that the public have more access to its life-saving potential in any public place.

"There are almost 1,000 NHS dental practices in the centre of Scottish communities. By giving them this equipment we are providing 1,000 more chances to save a life.

"I believe that this investment will save many more lives."

The machines are expected to be in place by the end of August.

Any dental practice which has already bought a defibrillator will be compensated.