Q&A

Should you call 911 before using an AED?

Should you call 911 before using an AED?

When to use an AED Have a friend or family member call 911 while you begin CPR. If you are alone, always call 911 first unless you are dealing with a victim of drowning or suffocation. You should perform up to five cycles (One cycle: 30 chest compressions, 2 rescue breaths) before using an AED, if available.

What are the steps prior before having to use the AED?

Before Using the AED

1. 1Turn on the AED and follow the visual and/or audio prompts.
2. 2 Open the person’s shirt and wipe his or her bare chest dry.
3. 3 Attach the AED pads, and plug in the connector (if necessary).
4. 4Make sure no one is, including you, is touching the person.

What is the correct order for using the AED?

Place the AED near the victim’s head and power on the unit. Some models require you to push a button to turn it on, while others turn on automatically when you lift the lid. Second, apply the AED pads. Expose the chest and wipe it dry of any moisture.

What should you check before delivering a shock using an AED?

Push the “analyze” button (if necessary) and allow the AED to analyze the person’s heart rhythm. If the AED recommends that you deliver a shock to the person, make sure that no one, including you, is touching the person – and tell everyone to “stand clear.” Once clear, press the “shock” button.

Should you use an AED immediately?

If an AED is immediately accessible, get the AED and use it right away. However, in all likelihood, there will not be an AED close enough and CPR should be started first. If there is only one person present, that person should start CPR right away and continue until first responders arrive.

Can you use AED instead of CPR?

Take Away. AED, when used during CPR, can increase the survival rate of the victim. The American Heart Association has stated that the survival rate of the victims nearly doubles when AED is administered along with CPR. While CPR help maintains blood flow, AED ensures proper heart rhythm.

Can you put an AED on a conscious person?

A defibrillator should be applied whenever CPR is performed. If the casualty is breathing, regardless of whether they are responsive (conscious) or not responsive (unconscious), a defibrillator is not required.

How do you use an AED on a woman?

Apply the AED electrode pads as indicated on the packaging. On most women, the breasts will fall to the side once clothing is removed. They will no longer be “in the way” of performing CPR and hand placement would be the same as on a man – two fingers above the bottom of the sternum, between the nipples.

What comes first CPR or AED?

Always call 911 first before administering CPR or using an AED. Timing of the use of an AED first depends on how accessible an AED is. If an AED is immediately accessible, get the AED and use it right away. However, in all likelihood, there will not be an AED close enough and CPR should be started first.

When should you not use an AED?

When Should You Not Use an AED?

• The Person is Suffering From a Heart Attack.
• The AED Is Faulty or Has Expired Parts.
• The Victim Has a DNR.
• The Victim Is Wet or Lying in Water.
• The Victim Has a Medication Patch or Pacemaker.
• The Victim Has a Hairy Chest.