Automated External Defibrillator
A quick guide to using one
By [Sparky Gee]
AED Introduction
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Making the heart beat
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Using an aed
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Learn more - it's free!
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A guide to Using an AED
To use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), first direct someone to call emergency services (111). Next, ask someone to locate the nearest AED and begin CPR if it is safe to do so.
When the AED arrives, turn it on and follow the voice prompts.
Remove any clothing that covers the chest, including jewellery, chest piercings, and bras. If the chest is wet, wipe it dry.
Next, remove the backing material from the AED pads and attach them to the person's bare chest according to the provided instructions. There are pictures on the pads to guide you. In some cases, you may need to plug the pad connector into the machine. The device will indicate if this step is necessary.
Once the machine is ready, it will instruct the user and bystanders not to touch the person while it searches for a heart rhythm that can be shocked. If the device detects a shockable rhythm, it is crucial to ensure that everyone is clear and not touching the collapsed person.
Place your finger on the shock button and complete one more check before pressing the "shock" button. Continue performing CPR as instructed by the AED until help arrives or the person shows signs of recovery.
AED USER CHECKLIST
Learn more about an AED
Discover how to locate your nearest AED, who can use it, what you may find in an AED bag, why they are crucial, and where they can be found.
Click on a title below to learn more.
An AED is a lightweight, portable machine that delivers an electric shock to the heart through the chest when it detects an abnormal heart rhythm. This shock aims to restore a normal rhythm. AEDs are crucial for individuals experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest, which occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating properly due to irregularities in its natural electrical system. Without treatment within minutes, cardiac arrest can lead to death.
AEDs are highly accurate in determining when to deliver a shock and when not to.
The Automated External Defibrillator (AED) provides guidance to the rescuer through voice prompts, lights, and text instructions. AEDs typically come with two sets of pads: adult pads and child pads. For CPR purposes, a child is defined as anyone who is 1 year or older, but has not yet reached puberty. However, for defibrillation, it is important to use adult pads for anyone who is 8 years old or older.
AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) are crucial for responding to cardiac arrest situations. When a person's normal heartbeat isn't restored, their chance of survival decreases by about ten percent for every minute that passes. Therefore, administering immediate CPR along with using an AED can significantly improve the person's chances of survival. For the best outcome in saving a life, it is essential to use an AED as quickly as possible whenever you perform CPR.
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are designed for use by the general public. These portable devices are safe, accurate, and easy to use. Individuals such as police officers, firefighters, flight attendants, and security guards are trained to operate AEDs. Additionally, anyone trained in CPR is also capable of using them. Although formal training in AED use is not mandatory, it is recommended as it can enhance your confidence in utilising the device.
Ambulances, law enforcement vehicles, many fire engines, and other first-responder vehicles should be equipped with Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs).
In addition to emergency vehicles, AEDs can also be seen in public areas such as sports venues, shopping malls, airports, airplanes, businesses, convention centers, hotels, schools, swimming pools, and doctors’ offices. They are also increasingly found in other public or private spaces where large numbers of people gather. You may also find them placed near elevators, cafeterias, main reception areas, and on the walls of main corridors.
A Standard carrying case for the AED may include the following items. It's important to note that different manufacturers may offer a variety of accessories:
- AED pads (including an extra set).
- AED battery (and a spare).
- Standard carrying case for the AED
- Optional child/infant AED pads.
- A pair of scissors or medical shears.
- A chest hair razor.
PUBLIC ACCESS DEFIBRILLATION
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To access an AED (Automated External Defibrillator), you must first call 111. The call taker will ask you for the location code of the AED cabinet. After providing this information, they will give you a code that allows you to unlock the cabinet and access the defibrillator.
Sparky Gee
Learning Assistant
AED Pad Placement
Defibrillators are medical devices that can save lives during a cardiac arrest. Along with CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), they can help restore a normal heart rhythm.
The defibrillators found in some public areas are known as AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators). These devices are designed for use by individuals who do not have medical training. When the AED pads are placed on a person's chest, the machine can detect the heart's rhythm and determine whether a shock is necessary.
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Placement on a flat chested person
AEDs have two sticky pads that are placed on the chest during use. One pad is placed below the person's right collarbone, and the other is placed below the person's armpit and the left nipple.
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Placement on a full chested person
The AED pad should be positioned on the person's left side, below any breast tissue and beneath the heart.
If the individual experiencing cardiac arrest has a larger chest, you may need to lift the left breast to place the pad correctly. You can do this by lifting the breast with one hand and placing the left pad underneath it.
It's essential to remove bras before using the AED, as they may contain metal that can interfere with the device.
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Children and Infants
Pediatric pads are smaller AED pads specifically designed for children and infants. If pediatric pads are unavailable, use a standard pad. Place one pad in the centre of the child's or infant's chest and the other in the centre of their back.
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Defibrillators are medical devices that can save lives during a cardiac arrest. Along with CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), they can help restore a normal heart rhythm.
The defibrillators found in some public areas are known as AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators). These devices are designed for use by individuals who do not have medical training. When the AED pads are placed on a person's chest, the machine can detect the heart's rhythm and determine whether a shock is necessary.
AED Locations
In New Zealand we have an app available called AED Locations. It was set up by Gareth Jenkin This app provides details of AED's that have been registered on the site by their owners to assist people to know where they can be found where a nearby sudden cardiac arrest has occurred
Gareth founded AED Locations after recognizing that while people were aware of some publicly available Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), this knowledge was ineffective if they didn't know where to find them. Tragically, people were dying within 50 meters of an AED simply because no one was aware of its presence.
Gareth realised that by documenting AED locations online, he could make it easier for individuals to locate and access them during emergencies. However, he lacked the financial resources and technological expertise to bring his idea to life. After The Listener published a story about heart attacks and AEDs, Abletech stepped in to assist Gareth in his endeavor.
An AED can increase someone's chance of survival by up to 80% if applied immediately.
Over 12,000 locations are now mapped on the AED locations website and can be accessed through either Android and iPhone apps.
Download the app today and locate the nearest AED (Automated External Defibrillator) to your home. Next, check the availability of the device.
Please note that many AEDs are only accessible from Monday to Friday between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Keeping a record of the nearest defibrillator and its availability could potentially save a family member's life one day. Click the image to download our free emergency call plan card, where you can store this important information.
