Compliance And Safety Training

AED (Automated External Defibrillator) Usage




1. What is an AED?

  • A portable device that delivers an electric shock to a person in sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).
  • It analyzes the heart's rhythm and restores a normal heartbeat by stopping irregular electrical activity (e.g., ventricular fibrillation).?

2. When to Use an AED

  • Use when someone is:

    • Unresponsive.
    • Not breathing or only gasping (agonal breathing).
    • Showing no pulse or signs of circulation.

  • Note: An AED won’t deliver a shock unless it detects a shockable heart rhythm.

3. Steps to Use an AED (Basic AED Procedure)???

A. Assess the Situation

  1. Check Responsiveness: Shake or tap the person and ask, "Are you okay?"
  2. If no response, call 911 (or have someone else call).
  3. Begin CPR while someone retrieves the AED.

B. Turn on the AED

  • Open the AED case and press the power button.

C. Attach the Pads

  1. Expose the person’s chest by removing clothing (use scissors if needed).?
  2. Ensure the chest is dry; wipe off sweat or moisture.

  3. Place the adhesive pads on the chest as shown on the pads or AED diagram:

    • Pad 1: Below the right collarbone (upper right chest).
    • Pad 2: Below the left armpit, on the side of the chest (lower left).

  4. Special Cases:

    • If the person has chest hair: Use a razor (if available) to shave the area before applying the pads.
    • Avoid placing pads over pacemakers or other implants (visible as a small lump under the skin).

D. Let the AED Analyze

  • The AED will instruct you to stand clear while it analyzes the heart’s rhythm.
  • Ensure no one is touching the person during this step.

E. Deliver the Shock (if Needed)

  • If the AED determines a shock is needed:
    • It will prompt you to press the shock button (or deliver it automatically, depending on the model).
    • Make sure everyone is clear before delivering the shock.

F. Resume CPR Immediately

  • After the shock, resume CPR with 30 chest compressions and 2 rescue breaths.
  • Follow the AED prompts—it will reanalyze the heart rhythm every 2 minutes.

4. Special Situations

  • Children and Infants:
  • Use pediatric AED pads, if available.

  • If pediatric pads aren’t available, use adult pads but ensure they don’t overlap.

    • Place one pad in the center of the chest and the other on the back.

  • Wet Environments:

  • Move the person to a dry area if possible.

  • Ensure the chest is completely dry before placing the pads.

  • Metal Surfaces:

  • If the person is on a metal surface, ensure the pads do not touch the metal.

  • Implanted Devices (e.g., pacemakers):

  • Avoid placing pads directly over the device (usually visible under the skin).

5. After Using the AED

  • Continue CPR until:
    • Emergency services arrive.
    • The person shows signs of life (e.g., breathing or movement).
  • Leave the AED pads attached to the person for emergency responders.

6. Maintaining AEDs?

  • Regular Inspections: Check the AED monthly to ensure it’s in working order.
  • Replace Supplies: Ensure pads and batteries are not expired.
  • Storage: Keep the AED in an accessible, clearly marked location.

7. Why AEDs Are Important?

  • Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) affects over 350,000 people annually in the U.S., and survival rates decrease by 7-10% for every minute without defibrillation.
  • Using an AED within 3-5 minutes of collapse can significantly increase survival chances.

8. Key Tips for AED Usage

  • Stay calm and follow the device’s voice prompts.?
  • Only use the AED if the person is unresponsive and not breathing.
  • AEDs are designed for easy use—even by untrained bystanders.
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