Using drones to deliver AEDs quickly to cardiac arrest victims

Evaluation of the Requirements and Critical Features of a Drone-Deployed AED Network to Improve Community-Level Survival after OHCA

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10892945

This study is looking at how drones can quickly deliver life-saving defibrillators to people who have a heart attack outside of the hospital, helping bystanders get the help they need faster and improve chances of survival.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10892945 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of drones to deliver automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to individuals experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) within minutes of a 911 call. The project aims to improve survival rates by reducing the time it takes for bystanders to access and use AEDs, which is crucial since every minute counts in such emergencies. The study will analyze various factors that influence bystander response and AED usage, including demographic and neighborhood characteristics. By leveraging drone technology, the research seeks to create a more effective emergency response system for cardiac arrest situations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk of experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, as well as community members who may witness such events.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk of cardiac arrest or who live in areas without drone delivery capabilities may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase survival rates for patients experiencing cardiac arrest by ensuring faster access to life-saving AEDs.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of drones for medical emergencies is a novel approach, preliminary simulations have shown promise in improving AED delivery times compared to traditional emergency services.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.