Adult AED

Precautions

  • Ensure that the scene is safe for defibrillation. Are you surrounded by gas? Are you and the patient physically connected to each other (e.x.: are you and the patient lying in a pool of water?)? Is there a fire or electrocution risk?
  • Are there any pieces of metal in the way? For example, are they wearing a wire bra, a necklace, or a nicotine pad?
    • Metal that is not in the way, such as earrings, are ok.
  • Note that defibrillation on pregnant mothers is ok. It is needed because both lives are in jeopardy

Steps

  1. Follow steps 1-3 for adult CPR (Refer to “Adult CPR” sheet for more details)
  2. Turn the AED on
  3. Remove clothing and expose the person’s bare chest.

   

  1. Now’s the time to remove any metallic objects that could be in the way of defibrillation, like necklaces
    1. Remove pads from the AED and attach pads according to pad diagram

   

  1. One on the top right side of the chest and one on the bottom left side, mid axillary, just under left breast

 Own Work

  1. Plug in the cable
  2. The AED will begin to analyze the patient’s heart rhythm. DO NOT TOUCH THE PATIENT. The AED will deliver one of two responses.

   

  1. “Shock Advised!”--The AED has determined that defibrillation is needed. STAND CLEAR! Make sure nobody is touching the patient. When the AED is charged, push the flashing “shock” button.
  2. “No shock advised”--The AED has determined that the heart does not have a shockable rhythm. The patient is not necessarily conscious or healthy again. If they are not exhibiting normal signs, continue CPR.
    1. After either response, begin 5 cycles of CPR. Refer to “Adult CPR” note sheet for more details.
    2. The AED will re-analyze the patient’s rhythm. Continue this cycle until patient is revived or help arrives.