AED FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN 8 YEARS AND OLDER

AED analyzes the heart rhythm to identify the presence of a rhythm that responds to shock therapy (a so called shockable rhythm). If necessary the device delivers an electrical shock to the heart. The shock temporarily “stunts” the heart muscle. This stops and “resets” the electrical system of the heart so that “organized” heart rhythm can return. If an organized rhythm returns and CPR continues the heart muscle can begin to contract and pump blood effectively, condition known as Return Of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC)

USING AED

Equipment varies by model and manufacturer, but all AED’s operate in basically the same way. Universal operating instructions are similar but it’s also important to be familiar with specific AED’s which may be available to you.

1. open the case and power on if needed
2. attach pads to the victim’s bare chest. Choose adult pads for victims 8 or older
   • peel backing away from pads
   • attach the adhesive side of the pads to the victim in accordance with instructions
   • if required, attach the pad cables to main unit
3. “clear” the victim and allow AED to analyze the heart rhythm
   • when prompted, clear the victim during analysis by making sure no one is touching the victim
   • some AED’s will direct you to push a button to begin analyzing, while others will begin automatically.
   • the AED will then advise if shock is needed
4. If shock is required, you will be prompted to clear the victim and AED will deliver a shock
   • clear the victim to be sure that no one is touching them
   • loudly say “clear the victim” or “everybody clear” and look to make sure there’s no contact with the victim
   • press the “shock” button on AED
5. if no shock is needed, or after shock delivery, immediately resume CPR
6. after about 5 cycles or 2 minutes of CPR, the AED will prompt you to analyze the heart rhythm again