Forum to review AED study

University of Pittsburgh researchers will conduct a public forum Wednesday to answers questions about a study that will place automated external defibrillators in public places.

Pitt is participating in a study that will test the effectiveness of putting the devices in places such as The Gateway Clipper Fleet, One Oxford Centre and Monroeville Mall.

Defibrillators are used to save victims of sudden cardiac arrest. The device analyzes heart rhythms and advises the user when to push a button to deliver a shock to the victim.

Researchers plan to place defibrillators at 40 public sites throughout western Pennsylvania.

Information gathered from the study will enable researchers to determine where and how automated external defibrillators should be deployed and whether the public can use them effectively.

To explain the study, researchers will hold the public meeting at 7:15 p.m. Wednesday in Freehof Hall at the Rodef Shalom Temple, 4905 Fifth Ave., Oakland.

For more information, call (412) 647-7942.