When Should You Not Use An AED?

AED is an abbreviation for Automated External Defibrillator. An AED analyzes the heart rhythm. Then it instructs a first responder to shock a victim of sudden cardiac arrest. This shock is known as defibrillation. It may help in re-establishing an effective rhythm of the heartbeat. Early defibrillation improves the chances of survival for victims of sudden cardiac arrest. Every minute that defibrillation is delayed, the likelihood of survival becomes lesser.

How to use an AED?

Using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is simple. It can be used by anyone with little or no medical training. AEDs are portable devices that are used to help people experiencing certain types of cardiac arrest. Here are the steps to follow when using an AED:

1. Check the scene: Make sure it is safe to approach the person in need.

2. Turn on the AED: Follow the instructions on the device to turn it on and prepare it for use.

3. Follow the prompts: The AED will give you step-by-step instructions on what to do.

4. Apply the pads: Remove the pads from the packaging and apply them to the person’s chest as directed by the AED.

5. Analyze the heart rhythm: The AED will analyze the person’s heart rhythm and determine if a shock is needed.

6. Administer the shock: If the AED determines that a shock is needed, it will tell you to press the shock button. Press the button as directed to deliver the shock.

7. Continue CPR: If the person does not respond after the shock, continue performing CPR until help arrives or the person begins to show signs of life.

It is important to note that AEDs are designed to be used only on adults and children above the age of 8 who are experiencing certain types of cardiac arrest. They should not be used on children under the age of 8 or on people who are conscious or breathing. If you are not trained in CPR and the use of AEDs, you should consider taking a CPR and AED training course to learn how to use these life-saving devices properly.

American HealthCare Academy offers a CPR/AED combo course that’s designed to train you for the right CPR techniques and using an AED. This CPR/AED certification course adheres to the most recent and updated 2020 Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) and AHA guidelines. It also follows the latest guidelines for CPR and Automated External Defibrillators. It has been designed to assist you in acquiring the skills necessary to respond effectively in an emergency.

Who can use AED? 

AEDs are designed in a way that they can be used by laypersons or common people with little or no medical training. They are easy to use and come with clear instructions that guide the user through the process of administering a shock to someone experiencing cardiac arrest. However, it is important to note that AEDs should only be used on adults and children over the age of 8 who are experiencing certain types of cardiac arrest.

Situations where you should avoid using AED

There are certain situations in which an AED shouldn’t be used:

1. On a conscious person: Use AEDs only on unconscious individuals who are not breathing and do not have a pulse.

2. On a child under the age of 8: AEDs are not for use on children under the age of 8.

3. On a wet person: Do not use an AED on a wet person. The water could interfere with the device’s ability to deliver a shock.

4. On a person touching metal: Do not use an AED on a person touching metal, as the metal could conduct the shock and cause injury.

5. In an unsafe environment: Do not use an AED if it is unsafe to approach the person in need. For example, if the person is in a body of water or if there is a risk of explosion.

Conclusion

It is necessary to follow the instructions on the AED and use it only in the appropriate situations. If you are not trained in CPR and the use of AEDs, you should consider taking a CPR and AED training course from the American HealthCare Academy. It is designed with the latest guidelines for CPR and Automated External Defibrillators. You will learn how to use these life-saving devices properly. Check out our website and enroll now!