AED (Defib): Automatic External Defibrillator — Reference Guide

AED Training - First Aid for All

AED - Automatic External Defibrillator

Learn how to use an AED effectively during cardiac emergencies

What is an AED?

An AED is a portable device that checks a person’s heart rhythm and can send an electric shock to restore a normal rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest.

When to Use an AED

  • ✅ The person is unresponsive
  • ✅ They are not breathing normally
  • ✅ You’ve called 999 or 112 (or asked someone to)

How to Use an AED (Step-by-Step)

  1. ? Stay Calm and Act Fast: Turn on the AED – it will give spoken instructions.
  2. ? Expose the Chest: Remove clothing, cut if needed. Ensure chest is dry and bare.
  3. ⚡ Attach the Pads: Place pads as shown:
    • One pad on the upper right chest
    • One pad on the lower left side (below armpit)
  4. ?‍♂️ Stand Clear: Let the AED analyze. Don’t touch the casualty.
  5. ? Follow AED Instructions:
    • If shock advised: ensure no one is touching them, then press the shock button.
    • If no shock: begin CPR if advised.
  6. ♻️ Resume CPR Immediately: After the shock (or if no shock is advised), do 2 minutes of CPR, then let AED re-analyze.

Continue Until:

  • ? Emergency services arrive
  • ? The person shows signs of life
  • ? You are told to stop

Safety Notes

  • ❌ Do not use in a wet environment
  • ⚠️ Use child pads for children, if available
  • ? Do not place pads over a pacemaker or medication patch

UK Cardiac Arrest & AED Statistics

Why early defibrillation saves lives:

Statistic Details
40,000+ Out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the UK each year
<1 in 10 Current survival rate without early intervention
50-70% Survival rate with defibrillation within 3-5 minutes

The Critical Window: Every Minute Matters

Survival falls by approximately 10% with every minute defibrillation is delayed.

© 2025 First Aid For All | Skills for Life

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