Q&A

How do you use an AED?

How do you use an AED?

AED Steps

  1. 1Turn on the AED and follow the visual and/or audio prompts.
  2. 2 Open the person’s shirt and wipe his or her bare chest dry.
  3. 3 Attach the AED pads, and plug in the connector (if necessary).
  4. 4Make sure no one is, including you, is touching the person.

When should you not use an AED?

When Should You Not Use an AED?

  • The Person is Suffering From a Heart Attack.
  • The AED Is Faulty or Has Expired Parts.
  • The Victim Has a DNR.
  • The Victim Is Wet or Lying in Water.
  • The Victim Has a Medication Patch or Pacemaker.
  • The Victim Has a Hairy Chest.

When can you use AED?

AED use is indicated if a person collapses and is unresponsive and not breathing. A shock from an AED is typically only delivered in about 1/2 of the victims in this condition but with high-quality CPR the heart may need a shock when the condition of the heart changes.

How does an AED defibrillator work?

How AEDs Work. The electrodes send information about the person’s heart rhythm to a processor in the AED, which then analyzes the rhythm to find out whether an electric shock is needed. If a defibrillation shock is needed, the AED uses the voice prompts to instruct when to press a button to deliver the shock.

What are the 5 steps involved in using an AED?

Part 2 – Using an AED

  • Step 1: Locate and fetch the AED. In order to save critical minutes, it is best if the location of the AED is known.
  • Step 2: Make sure the patient is dry.
  • Step 3: Turn on the AED and prepare the patient’s chest area.
  • Step 4: Attach the pads to the chest.
  • Step 5: Deliver the shock, if advised.

How do you use an AED on a woman?

Apply the AED electrode pads as indicated on the packaging. On most women, the breasts will fall to the side once clothing is removed. They will no longer be “in the way” of performing CPR and hand placement would be the same as on a man – two fingers above the bottom of the sternum, between the nipples.

What are 5 things to remember about using an AED?

Using an AED within the first few minutes can reverse cardiac arrest and saves lives….When do I use an AED?

  • Becomes unresponsive suddenly.
  • Stops breathing.
  • Does not respond when you tap on the shoulders firmly.
  • Does not respond when you ask, “Are you OK?”
  • Does not take a breath when you tilt the head up.

What do you do immediately after AED shocks?

Begin CPR after delivering the shock. If no shock is advised, begin CPR right away. Perform 2 minutes (about 5 cycles) of CPR and continue to follow the AEDs prompts. If you notice obvious signs of life, discontinue CPR and monitor breathing for any changes in condition.

What are the side effects of a defibrillator?

What are the side effects of a defibrillator?

  • Arteriovenous fistula (an abnormal connection between the artery and the vein)
  • Blood clots in the arteries or veins.
  • Injury to the lung, a collapsed lung, or bleeding in the lung cavities.
  • Developing a hole in the blood vessels.
  • Infection of the system.
  • Bleeding from the pocket.

What are the six steps of using an AED?

How to Use an AED

  • When to Use an AED. The first step is to determine whether a defibrillator is actually needed.
  • Before Using an AED.
  • Perform CPR While Waiting for the AED.
  • Turn on the Device.
  • Check for Readiness.
  • Apply the Electrode Pads.
  • Stand Clear.
  • Administer Shock if Necessary.

Can I carry an AED in my car?

While some AEDs are rated for tough use and built ruggedly to withstand abuse, it’s still important to keep your device within its manufacturer-recommended temperature range. ☀️If you need to keep your AED in a vehicle, for instance, an emergency vehicle, do not store it in the trunk.