You may have heard of AEDs—or maybe you haven't—and you might be wondering what they really are. What exactly is the purpose of this device you often see hanging in public spaces? Simply put, an AED, or Automated External Defibrillator, is a life-saving tool that delivers critical care to someone experiencing Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) before the ambulance can arrive.
Here at AED First Response, we are dedicated to educating people about what AEDs are and what sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) entails, with the goal of saving lives in our communities.
This is why we've compiled this blog post to walk readers through what an AED is, who can use one, how it works, and the steps you can follow to use one effectively during a crisis. Let's jump in.
What is an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)?
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable, user-friendly medical device designed to treat people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) by administering a controlled electric shock to the heart.
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a medical emergency that occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating, cutting off blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. This is different from a heart attack, which is caused by a blockage in the coronary arteries. Sudden cardiac arrest is related to the heart's electrical system.
The shock that an AED delivers, known as defibrillation, can help restore a normal heart rhythm when it stops beating. So, how exactly does it do that?
AEDs are equipped with electrode pads that are placed on the chest. The device then analyzes the heart's rhythm, and if it detects an irregular, life-threatening rhythm called ventricular fibrillation (VF) or ventricular tachycardia (VT), it delivers a life-saving electric shock.
That shock helps reset the heart's rhythm so blood can continue to flow to the brain and the rest of the body. Restoring the heartbeat as quickly as possible is crucial, as a person's chances of survival decline by 7% to 10% with every minute that passes.
Who Can Use An AED?
While some people may think that only first responders and medical personnel can use devices like these - that is actually far from the case. AEDs are intended to be used by the general public.
Anyone can operate an AED, and it is highly recommended to do so in an emergency. These devices are often placed in high-traffic areas, such as sports venues, schools, shopping malls, gyms, airports, hotels, and so on, so people can use them in the event of Sudden Cardiac Arrest.
Imagine you're at your gym when the person next to you suddenly collapses, appearing to have suffered sudden cardiac arrest. While some gym-goers are unsure of what to do, you remember the AED located near the entrance. You can go retrieve that AED and hopefully save the person's life.
While training is recommended, it is not required. You can receive training through organizations like the American Heart Association (AHA), the Red Cross, your local hospital or fire department, or even your workplace. Several organizations also offer online AED certification courses, which teach how to use an AED, perform CPR, and respond effectively to emergencies.
Don’t be worried about not knowing how to use an AED or “messing” it up. All 50 states have enacted “Good Samaritan” laws that provide civil liability protection for individuals who buy or use these devices.
What Do To In The Event of Sudden Cardiac Arrest
So how do you use an AED? We’ll get into that. But there are the first steps you should follow if you witness a cardiac event.
1. Recognize the Symptoms of SCA
Signs of SCA include a sudden collapse, lack of responsiveness, irregular or no breathing, and no pulse. Time is critical—act immediately.
2. Call for Emergency Help
Dial 911 (or your local emergency number) right away. Inform the dispatcher of the situation and provide your location.
3. Start CPR Immediately
Begin chest compressions to circulate blood manually until an AED is available. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest, maintaining a rhythm of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
The American Heart Association (AHA) states that "CPR is the most crucial intervention for a patient in cardiac arrest and should continue until a defibrillator is used to minimize pauses in compressions."
4. Retrieve and Use an AED
If an AED is nearby, retrieve it and follow the instructions to deliver potentially life-saving treatment. We will get into how to use an AED in the next section.
How to Use an AED (Step by Step)
Using an AED may seem intimidating at first, but they're designed to be extremely simple, so anyone can use them. Follow these steps:
1. Turn on the AED
The first step is to power the AED. This will activate the device's voice prompts, guiding you through the process.
2. Expose and Prepare the Chest
Remove all clothing (including bra) covering the chest to ensure skin contact with the pads. If necessary, wipe the chest dry to ensure the pads adhere properly.
3. Attach the Pads
- Place one pad on the upper right side of the chest, above the heart.
- Place the other pad on the lower left side of the chest, a few inches below the armpit.
- Important Note: If the pads might touch due to the size of the individual (e.g., in small children), place one pad in the center of the chest and the other pad on the back, between the shoulder blades.
4. Connect the Pads
If the AED requires it, plug the pad's connector cable into the device. Modern AEDs may have pre-connected pads, so you don’t have to worry about this.
5. Stay Clear During Analysis
Once the pads are in place, the AED will analyze the heart's rhythm. Ensure no one is touching the individual during this time by loudly saying, “CLEAR!” to ensure everyone around steps back.
6. Deliver the Shock (If Necessary)
If the AED determines a shock is needed:
- Confirm that no one is in contact with the individual by saying, “CLEAR!” again.
- Press the "shock" button to deliver the electric shock.
7. Resume CPR Immediately
After the AED delivers a shock (or if it advises no shock), the AED will instruct you to resume CPR right away, starting with chest compressions. Continue CPR until emergency medical personnel arrive or the individual regains consciousness.
Have Questions? Contact AED First Response Today
Have questions about AEDs—whether it’s about purchasing or using one? Contact AED First Response today! We can learn about your needs and help recommend the best AED for your situation or help point you toward useful resources. Contact – AED First Response or email us at customerservice@aedfirstresponse.com or 888.462.9502.
