Where and how do people search for medical emergency equipment in public buildings?

Abstract

Exsanguinating trauma is a common cause of death. Placing bleeding control kits in public areas has been suggested as a countermeasure. Similarly, automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) are placed in public areas in case of cardiac arrests. Both severe bleeding and cardiac arrests require rapid care and people must be able to quickly find relevant emergency equipment. This study explores where and how people search for such equipment. Twenty participants wearing eye-tracking glasses searched for bleeding control kits and AEDs in a public building. The participants visually searched features such as signs with maps, written information, and other emergency equipment. The participants expressed elevators and staircases, open areas, entrances, and the reception to be places where medical emergency equipment would likely be placed. The results suggest that these features and places may be suitable for medical emergency equipment or directions.