| An automated external defibrillator, or AED, is a | | | | one is touching the victim. Push the “Analyze” |
| medical device that can be found in many areas | | | | button to indicate the shocks. A shock is indicated if |
| outside of the doctor’s office and hospital. An AED | | | | the victim’s heart is in ventricular fibrillation; a “no |
| is found in airports, shopping centers, casinos, schools, | | | | shock” message means that the victim has a pulse, |
| fitness centers, sports arenas and many other heavily | | | | has regained the lost pulse, or the victim is pulseless, |
| populated public areas. While many people are familiar | | | | but is not in a shockable rhythm. |
| with the mechanism, they might not know the uses or | | | | 4. If the AED shows that shock is required, make |
| how to use the machine. | | | | sure that everyone and yourself is clear of the victim. |
| An AED is used in cases of life threatening cardiac | | | | Press the shock button to deliver the first shock and |
| arrhythmias, which also lead to cardiac arrest. Here is | | | | immediately begin CPR for five cycles. Make sure to |
| a simple guide to using an AED. | | | | leave the AED pads in place while performing CPR. |
| 1. After calling 911, check the victim’s breathing and | | | | 5. Check the victim’s rhythm after performing CPR |
| airway. Perform CPR if the victim isn’t breathing. | | | | and go back to Step 3. If indicated by the AED, |
| Locate the AED. | | | | provide another shock. If the machine gives a “no |
| 2. Attach the AED with the adhesive pads to the | | | | shock” message after the analysis, check the |
| victim’s chest, according to the directions found on | | | | victim’s pulse and breathing status. If there’s a |
| the AED, and turn on the device. | | | | pulse, monitor the victim’s airway and provide |
| 3. Stop CPR and say, “Clear,” ensuring that no | | | | rescue breathing as necessary. |