AED Overview

An AED is a machine that interprets heart rhythms and determines whether or not the patient needs a shock. Some patients go into cardiac arrest because of a lethal heart rhythm that does not pump blood to the body. A shock (from an AED or defibrillator) can help reset the lethal rhythm into a normal rhythm that pumps blood to the body.

  • An AED delivers shocks in joules, which is a form of electrical energy conduction, such as watts.
  • Lethal rhythms that the AED is equipped to deal with include:

    Ventricular Fibrillation


    Ventricular Tachycardia


    Both of these cardiac rhythms cause death because the heart becomes ineffective at pumping blood to vital organs. These two rhythms can be shocked, resetting the heart into a normal functional rhythm.


    AED Signs


    These signs are common at Airports, shops, and other public places. When you see this sign, they are indicating that just below or next to it, there is an AED. Also shown is an AED. It is as easy as 1,2,3.

    1. Turn the machine "On."
    2. Place the pads on the patient and let the AED analyze the rhythm.
    3. If indicated, press the shock button.


    Turn On AED



    Some have a power button, while others turn on when you open the lid. Some AED's have a screen that prompts direction and some AED's have a voice that prompts direction. Some AED's have both a screen and voice directions. Just stay calm, follow the instructions and think about all the steps you need to take.


    Get Ready



    Once the machine is on, place the pads on the patient. There is usually a diagram on the pads and on the machine, indicating the proper placement. The pads are adhesive and will stick to patient Be sure to use proper pads. There are adult pads for adults and child pads for children Be sure the pads are applied to bare chest and not over clothing. Although it is important to protect the patient's modesty, you must take care to ensure proper placement of the pads. Incorrect placement can prevent the machine from functioning properly and prevent a shock that might save a life.

    Note: Pregnant patients may be shocked as well. Just as is true for the mother, a fetus has a greater chance of survival if the AED is used when indicated, versus not at all.


    Shock Advised?

    Some machines will automatically analyze the rhythm while other machines will have a button to analyze. If the machine indicates a shock is necessary, you must make sure no one is touching the patient, INCLUDING YOU!
  • Electricity will travel through the patient and can be passed on to you if you are touching the patient or are near the patient.
  • Before pressing the shock button, announce loudly and clearly: "CLEAR"! A great way of insuring everyone is clear of the patient is by saying, "I'm Clear, you're clear, we are all clear!"
  • Once you insure no one is near the patient, press the shock button.
    •


    No Shock?

    After you analyze and no shock is necessary, resume CPR/

    Now What?
    After a shock, begin CPR After 5 cycles of CPR (5 cycles of 30:2) and reevaluate the rhythm. If the AED detects a shockable rhythm, it will prompt you to deliver a shock, then resume CPR. If no shockable rhythm is detected, then resume CPR Minimize time of rhythm checks. Remember, for every pause in compressions, we lose valuable pressure in the chest wall that we have worked so hard to create!

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