Defibrillation is an electrical shock delivered to the heart. The Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a device capable of automatically detecting a heart rhythm that requires a shock. The AED will charge itself & prompt the user to deliver a shock to the victim. AEDs analyze the victim's heart rhythm several times to be certain it is a shockable rhythm.


Steps

1. Confirm cardiac arrest by checking to see if the victim is unable to respond and there is no breathing & pulse.
2. Attach the AED to defibrillator pads & cables then turn it on.
3. Apply pads to the victim's bare chest.
4. Allow the AED to analyze the heart rhythm.
5. Make certain everyone "stands clear."
6. If a shock is indicated by the AED, push the shock button.

Tips

• Professional instruction is strongly recommended. You can check with the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross for available classes.There are AED Training machines & classes specifically designed to allow the user to become familiar with the AED "basics" There is no way for an individual to practice with the actual AED.
• Learn CPR as part of cardiac care.

Warnings

• Never use alcohol pads to clean the chest before attaching pads to the chest.