…pressed the wrong button.
The AED analyses the person’s heart rhythm and determines whether a shock is required.
If no shock is indicated, it won’t instruct you to deliver one.
What can cause harm is unnecessary delay. ANZCOR recommends applying an AED as soon as it becomes available while continuing CPR until it is turned on and the pads are attached.
You don’t need to diagnose the heart rhythm. Call 111. Start CPR. Get the AED. Turn it on. Follow the prompts.
Tomorrow: Heart attack and cardiac arrest are often confused—but they’re not the same thing.
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Acknowledgement
We fact-check data and information against recognised sources, including the New Zealand Resuscitation Council, Health Navigator New Zealand, St John, and other recognised entities specialising in the specific subject content. Protocols vary, and we note differences where necessary.