AEDs are devices which are used in the event of a cardiac arrest. They can analyze a person's heart rhythm and decide whether or not to apply a shock accordingly. A PAD site is an AED that is available for public use. Often mounted on hallways in high-traffic areas, PAD sites have been credited with saving many lives nationwide.

Rice University uses Medtronic's Lifepak Express AED in all of its PAD sites. The AED is designed to be used both by trained rescuers and laypeople. Pressing the power button activates the AED and opens the cover. Inside is a set of defibrillator pads in a sealed envelope and the AED controls. Opening the envelope exposes the pads, which have clear pictures illustrating the proper placement on the patient. The computer software in the AED guides the user using voice prompts throughout the entire AED process. After the software detects that the pads have been properly applied, it will determine whether or not the patient needs a shock. Directions from the AED instruct the user as to how to shock, if necessary, or what to do if no shock is advised.

In addition to the AED, PAD sites also contain additional rescue equipment. These supplies are stored in a bag attached to the AED, and include gloves, towels or gauze, razors for removing chest hair, and a pocket mask to prevent disease transmission during CPR. Both the AED and the included supplies are stored in clearly marked cabinets. These cabinets feature alarm systems, which can sound audible and visible alarms, as well as notify Campus Police so that EMS can be dispatched.

Though AEDs are designed to be used by anyone, we highly recommend taking a CPR and AED course. Not only will you have the ability to practice using an AED during the class, but you'll also be very familiar with the workings of an AED as well as proper CPR, and will be better prepared to help in an emergency situation. CPR and AED are taught by Rice EMS; email rems-education@rice.edu for more information.

Finally, we want to remind you that if you need to use an AED, please have someone else call Rice EMS at 713-348-6000. Though many of our cabinets have automatic alarms, without help from you and other bystanders, EMTs responding will not be able to find the patient. In addition, calling RUPD allows EMTs to get additional information about the emergency, and can speed up the arrival of EMTs and the ambulance.

Campus PAD Site Locations

Alice Pratt Brown Hall (Music School)
The APB AED is inside the main first-floor lobby (on the west side of the building) on the South wall.
Allen Center
This PAD site is located in the first floor lobby immediately outside the Registrar's Office.
Autry Court
Located in the hallway between the East and West Gyms, immediately adjacent to the pool. In addition to the standard supplies in most AED cabinets, this AED features a set of child pads in case a person under 12 needs an AED.
Baker Institute
The Baker Institute AED is located in the North Lobby, in the northeast corner, next to the wheelchair accessible door.
Cohen House
This AED is located in the hallway leading to the offices on the east end of the building.
Duncan Hall
The Duncan Hall AED is next to the elevator off the main commons area on the east side of the building.
Facilities, Engineering, and Planning
The FE&P AED is kept inside the break room, next to the vending machines.
Fondren Library
The AED in Fondren is on the wall next to the Circulation Desk.
Hamman Hall
The Hamman Hall AED is on the first floor, next to the Men's Restroom.
Keck Hall
The AED in Keck Hall is on the first floor next to the elevator in the middle of the building.
Lovett Hall
The Lovett Hall AED is inside the Welcome Center (Door B).
McNair Hall (Jones Business School)
McNair Hall has two AEDs. Both are on the first floor. One is in the east section of the building, in the doors closest to the Alumni Drive and the RMC Circle Drive. The other is in the west half of the building, across the hall from the elevator closest to the archway between the two halves of the building.
North Servery
This PAD site is located inside the Kitchen, next to the Employee Break Room
Rice Memorial Center
The RMC AED is on the first floor, next to the Bookstore, across from Coffeehouse.
Rice Stadium (Football)
The Stadium AED is located on the Lower Concourse, underneath the R Room (the South end zone), next to the Women's Restroom.
Sewall Hall
This PAD site is immediately inside the wheelchair accessible door on the south side of the building, near the Art Gallery offices.
South Servery
This AED is located inside the hallway leading from the serving lines to the offices.
Tennis Stadium (Hess Court)
This PAD site is located inside the east gate next to the water fountain.