An AED, or automated external defibrillator, is a device that analyzes the heart rate of an individual suffering from cardiac arrest to determine if a shock is needed to reset the proper rhythm and function of the heart. Notable AED manufacturers provide a variety of AEDs that are accessible and affordable for lay people. Any CPR or CPR online renewal course can show you the proper technique for using an AED. This guide will walk you through the detailed AED steps to effectively use an AED and highlight the importance of proper training.
Importance of AED Training for Sudden Cardiac Arrest
1. Confidence in Emergencies:
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Preparation: Online CPR and First Aid certification courses are designed to help you feel comfortable using an AED device with confidence in an emergency situation. CPR AED training saves lives and highlights the importance of cross CPR AED training in preparing individuals for emergencies.
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User-Friendly Design: AED devices are designed to be user-friendly, allowing even those without CPR experience or training to administer the device correctly.
2. Automated Features:
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Guided Instructions: Newer AED machines are automated and provide clear, step-by-step instructions, making it easy to follow during high-stress situations. Red Cross CPR AED training is available and has a significant impact on equipping individuals with the skills needed to save lives.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using an AED
Step 1: Assess the Situation
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Ensure Safety: Make sure the scene is safe for both you and the victim. Check for hazards such as traffic, fire, or electrical dangers.
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Check Responsiveness: Tap the victim and shout to see if they respond. If there is no response, call 911 immediately or instruct someone else to do so.
Step 2: Prepare the AED
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Turn on the AED: Open the AED case and turn on the device by pressing the power button. Some devices turn on automatically when the case is opened.
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Follow Voice Prompts: The AED will provide voice prompts and visual instructions. Follow these instructions carefully.
Step 3: Expose the Chest
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Remove Clothing: Remove the victim’s shirt or unbutton the front to expose the chest. For female victims, remove the bra to avoid interference from the underwire, which can conduct electricity and prevent an accurate reading.
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Dry the Chest: If the chest is wet, dry it off to ensure the pads stick properly and the device functions correctly.
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Shaving: If the victim has a lot of chest hair, quickly shave the area where the pads will be placed. Many AED kits include a razor for this purpose.
Step 4: Attach the AED Pads
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Pad Placement: The AED device has simple pictures showing the exact placement of the pads. One pad should be placed on the upper right side of the chest and the other on the lower left side, below the armpit.
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Adhere Pads Firmly: Ensure the pads are firmly attached to the skin to get an accurate reading and effective shock delivery.
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Special Considerations: If the victim has a pacemaker or other implanted device, place the pads at least one inch away from the device. Avoid placing pads directly over any jewelry or body piercings.
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Electrode Pads for Children: Check if the AED requires specific child electrode pads or has an integrated attenuator for use with children and infants.
Step 5: Analyze the Heart Rhythm
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Stand Clear: Once the pads are in place, the AED will instruct you to stand back and not touch the victim. This ensures the device gets an accurate reading.
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Heart Rhythm Analysis: The AED will analyze the heart's rhythm and determine if a shock is needed.
Step 6: Deliver the Shock
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Clear the Area: Ensure that no one is touching the victim. Loudly announce, “Everyone clear!” before delivering the shock.
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Press Shock Button: If the AED advises a shock, press the shock button to deliver an electrical shock. Some AEDs will deliver the shock automatically.
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Follow Prompts: After the shock is delivered, the AED will prompt you to begin CPR. Leave the pads in place as they may be needed for additional shocks.
Step 7: Perform CPR
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CPR Cycles: Begin CPR with 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. The AED will provide prompts and reminders to help you maintain the proper pace and technique.
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Reassess: Every 2 minutes, the AED will prompt you to stop CPR for it to reassess the heart rhythm. Follow the device’s instructions throughout the process.
Detailed Steps for Effective AED Use
1. Ensure Scene Safety:
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Environmental Hazards: Check for any environmental hazards such as water, electrical sources, or traffic that could pose a risk to you or the victim.
2. Check for Responsiveness and Breathing:
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Tap and Shout: Gently tap the victim and shout to see if they respond.
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Check Breathing: Look for chest movement, listen for breath sounds, and feel for breath on your cheek. If the victim is not breathing or only gasping, prepare to use the AED.
3. Call for Help:
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Emergency Services: Call 911 or have someone else call. If you are alone, use a speakerphone to call while you start CPR.
4. Prepare the AED:
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Power On: Open the AED and turn it on. Follow the voice prompts.
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Remove Obstructions: Ensure no obstructions (clothing, jewelry) are interfering with pad placement.
5. Apply AED Pads Correctly:
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Proper Placement: One pad should be placed just below the right collarbone, and the other pad should be placed on the left side, below the armpit.
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Firm Attachment: Make sure the pads are pressed firmly to the skin to ensure good contact.
6. Analyze and Shock:
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Stay Clear: Ensure no one is touching the victim during analysis and shock delivery.
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Automatic Analysis: The AED will automatically analyze the heart rhythm and decide if a shock is needed. AEDs detect life-threatening heart rhythm abnormalities like ventricular fibrillation.
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Deliver Shock: If advised, press the shock button or let the AED deliver the shock automatically. Defibrillation is critical in treating sudden cardiac arrest by restoring a normal heart rhythm.
7. Perform High-Quality CPR:
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Chest Compressions: Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest, place your other hand on top, and interlock your fingers. Use straight arms and push hard and fast at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
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Rescue Breaths: After 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths. Pinch the nose, seal your lips over the victim’s mouth, and blow until you see the chest rise. Ensure each breath lasts about 1 second.
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Cycles of CPR: Continue with cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths. Follow the AED prompts for re-evaluation every 2 minutes.
8. Ensure Continuous Monitoring:
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Reassessment: Every 2 minutes, the AED will reassess the heart rhythm. Be prepared to deliver another shock if advised.
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Continuation of Care:Continue CPR until professional help arrives or the victim shows signs of life.
Additional Tips for Effective AED Use
1. Be Aware of Special Situations:
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Pacemakers: Place pads at least one inch away from any visible pacemakers.
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Medication Patches: Remove any medication patches from the chest area and wipe the skin clean before applying AED pads.
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Children and Infants: Use pediatric AED pads if available. If not, adult pads can be used with proper placement adjustments.
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Electric Shock: AEDs deliver a controlled electric shock to restore normal heart rhythms in cases of cardiac arrest.
2. Keep Calm and Focused:
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Maintain Composure: Staying calm helps you follow instructions accurately and reassures the victim if they regain consciousness.
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Delegate Tasks: If others are present, delegate tasks such as calling emergency services, retrieving the AED, or assisting with CPR.
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First Responders: First responders typically arrive within 8-12 minutes, so using an AED promptly is crucial as survival chances decrease with each minute of delay.
3. Regular Maintenance of AEDs:
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Check Battery and Pads: Ensure the AED is regularly maintained, with batteries and pads checked and replaced as needed.
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Familiarize Yourself: Regularly familiarize yourself with the AED model you have access to, so you can use it confidently in an emergency.
Conclusion
Using an AED can be a life-saving intervention during cardiac arrest. AEDs are critical medical devices used for individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. By following these detailed steps and maintaining regular training through online CPR and AED certification programs, you can be prepared to act confidently and effectively in an emergency. AED devices are designed to be user-friendly, making it possible for anyone to use them with minimal training. Remember, preparation and prompt action are key to increasing the chances of survival during cardiac emergencies.
Online AED training saves lives and helps you be more prepared in the event of a medical emergency. Get started today by enrolling in an online certification course to gain the knowledge and confidence needed to act swiftly and effectively in critical situations.
