Drone Delivery of Automated External Defibrillators to Lay Users (DAEDALUS): A proof of concept study

Research Questions How can communication, operational, and logistical protocols be optimised to integrate drone-delivered Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) into the UK s 999 emergency response system and airspace regulations? 2. What are the public perceptions and acceptability challenges associated with the use of drones for delivering AEDs in emergency situations? Background Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest (OHCA) is a major public health issue, with survival rates in the UK under 10%, mainly due to delays in defibrillation. Despite the availability of AEDs, timely application remains a challenge. Drones offer a promising solution by enabling rapid AED delivery to OHCA scenes. Previous international studies have shown drone-based AED delivery is feasible, but real-world effectiveness is still suboptimal. The integration of drones into existing emergency services in the UK remains under explored. Aims and Objectives This is the first step in a phased approach to possible future introduction of drones into OHCA response systems. The aim is to develop and test protocols for integrating drone delivery of AEDs into 999 emergency systems. Results will inform future research and next steps toward broader implementation. Specific objectives include: Iteratively developing and testing protocols for the integration of drone-delivered AEDs into the 999-emergency response system Evaluating public and responder perceptions, including barriers and acceptability, to ensure lay responders can effectively use drone-delivered AEDs. Identifying and addressing operational challenges to ensure AEDs are deployed and applied quickly. Methods Work Package 1 (WP1) develops, tests and refines the drone delivery protocols through simulations at Redhill Aerodrome. Protocols will be developed for the entire process, from the 999-call to AED delivery, involving coordination with Air Traffic Control, ambulance dispatch, and drone operators. Sixteen simulations will be conducted over four months, using manikins to enact cardiac arrest scenarios. Response times and participant feedback will be analysed to refine the protocols. Work Package 2 (WP2) involves conducting interviews concurrently with a diverse group, including members of the public, OHCA survivors, lay responders, family members, and carers. These interviews will explore perceptions, barriers, facilitators and acceptability of drone-delivered AEDs. Both WP1 and WP2 will be integrated through feedback loops, where findings from one package will inform the other, ensuring iterative improvements to the protocols. Timelines for Delivery The project will be delivered over 16 months. WP1 is split into two stages: development of the drone delivery process in the first 3 months, followed by testing the developed process, through the simulations. Concurrently, WP2 will recruit participants, conduct interviews, and analyse data. This concurrent approach ensures that both the technical and human factors can be integrated to refine protocols. Anticipated Impact and Dissemination This study will provide data on the operational efficiency, and public readiness for drone use in OHCA scenarios. The findings will inform broader implementation and larger observational studies on drone use in real-world settings. Results will be disseminated through academic publications, conferences, webinars, and public engagement activities. Working with stakeholders, we aim to influence policy and practice, paving the way for broader adoption of drone technology in UK emergency response.