How to Use an AED?

If an adult or a child is in cardiac arrest (not responsive, not breathing, and no pulse), you should begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with chest compressions and yell for someone to call 911 and get an AED.

Cardiac arrest can be fatal if not treated within minutes. Survival outside a hospital depends on prompt bystander emergency response.

What is an AED?

An AED (automated external defibrillator) is an electronic device that can analyze a heart rhythm to determine if a shock is needed for someone in cardiac arrest. While most cardiac arrests occur in adults, sudden cardiac arrest can happen in a child or adolescent.

How to use an AED in an emergency:

• When then AED is available, continue chest compressions and rescue breathing while someone else turns on the AED and attaches the pads.
• The AED will check the patient’s heart rhythm and decide whether to deliver a shock. If the AED says, “shock advised,” press the charge button, stand clear of the patient, and press the shock button when it lights up. Be sure that no one is touching the patient when a shock is delivered.
• Then resume CPR. It is essential to minimize interruptions of rescue breathing and chest compressions.

Adult and Pediatric Pads for AEDs:

While all AEDS are made for adults, there are pediatric pads that adjust the energy level used. These pads are for younger children (less than eight years).

• You can use adult pads for children eight years and older.
• You can use adult pads for a child less than eight years, but you may have to apply them differently than shown on the places: apply one on the front of the chest, the other on the back, so they do not touch. Once the pads are attached, follow the instructions given by the AED.

Take a CPR Class and Learn How to Use an AED!

To learn more about using an AED, the ICA Training Academy recommends taking a class in CPR. These classes will give you a chance to practice CPR and use an AED.

The ICA Training Academy also supports age-appropriate life-support training for students, including CPR for older children and all staff, in all schools starting with the primary grades. The ICA Training Academy also encourages having AEDs near school athletic facilities and training, so school personnel and older children know how to use them.

Visit: icatrainingacademy.com for more information. Thank you for reading