AED FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN 8 YEARS AND OLDER
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a life-saving device that analyzes heart rhythms and delivers an electrical shock if necessary to restore a normal rhythm. The shock temporarily “stuns” the heart muscle, stopping and “resetting” its electrical activity, allowing an organized rhythm to return. If the heart regains a normal rhythm and CPR continues, the heart can resume pumping blood effectively—a condition known as Return of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC).
USING AN AED
While AED models may vary by manufacturer, they all function in a similar manner. Knowing how to operate an AED can significantly improve survival rates in cardiac arrest victims.
Steps for Using an AED:
- Open the AED case and power it on if necessary.
- Attach the AED pads to the victim’s bare chest. Use adult pads for victims 8 years or older.
- Peel the backing away from the pads.
- Attach the adhesive side of the pads to the victim’s chest, following the diagram on the pads.
- If required, connect the pad cables to the AED unit.
- “Clear” the victim and allow the AED to analyze the heart rhythm.
- Ensure that no one is touching the victim while the AED analyzes.
- Some AEDs require you to press a button to begin analysis, while others start automatically.
- The AED will determine if a shock is needed.
- If a shock is advised:
- Ensure no one is touching the victim.
- Clearly and loudly say, “Clear the victim!” or “Everybody clear!”
- Visually confirm that no one is in contact with the victim.
- Press the “Shock” button on the AED.
- If no shock is needed or after the shock is delivered, immediately resume CPR.
- After about 5 cycles (or 2 minutes) of CPR, the AED will prompt you to analyze the heart rhythm again.
Proper use of an AED, combined with high-quality CPR, significantly increases the chances of survival in a cardiac arrest emergency.