What is an AED

An AED is an automated external defibrillator used to help patients going into cardiac arrest.

Using an AED

  1. As soon as an AED is available, turn it on and follow the instructions;

  2. Remove all clothing from patient’s chest;

  3. Correctly place defib pads on bare chest as shown in the pictures on the device;

  4. AED analyses heart rhythm

  5. Listen to AED instructions

  6. If the AED prompts to give shock, stay clear of the patient.

  7. After the AED delivers the shock, continue CPR with compressions until the person responds, or normal breathing returns, or the paramedics take over

  8. Continue to listen to any instructions from the AED. Sometimes it may be necessary to shock the patient more than once.

Citation

  • How to use an AED - Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute. (n.d.). The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute. https://www.victorchang.edu.au/aed

  • What is AED: Understanding Automated External Defibrillators. (n.d.). https://www.mycprcertificationonline.com/aed

When is an AED needed