An AED, short for Automated External Defibrillator, is a life-saving piece of equipment that can be used on someone suffering from a cardiac arrest.
AEDs prompt the user through each instruction from the moment the AED is opened. As long as you listen to the instructions, you can use an AED.
The device consists of:
An AED (which may also be called a defibrillator or ‘defib’) works by analysing the heart to decipher whether the heart is in a shockable rhythm. The two shockable rhythms are known as Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) or Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia (PVT).
If the AED finds a shockable rhythm (VF or PVT), it will deliver a shock to the heart to stop the abnormal rhythm. Once the shock has been delivered, the AED will prompt the user to begin CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation).
A common misconception is that AEDs will shock no matter what, however, as above, the AED will only shock if it finds a shockable rhythm (VF or PVT). Therefore, if you are touching the casualty when the AED is analysing, it will say ‘no shock advised’, as the AED has potentially analysed your own heart and thus decided it does not need to be shocked. This is why it is important that when the AED says ‘stand clear’ you and anyone else in the environment, must not touch the casualty so that the AED can analyse effectively.
Quick access to a defibrillator can save somebody’s life during a cardiac arrest.
Take a look at where your nearest Defibrillator is located.
It is important to understand the difference between a heart attack and a cardiac arrest so you can take the correct necessary actions to increase somebody’s chances of a positive outcome.
One in four of the emergencies to which EAAA is tasked are cardiac arrests. CPR stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It is when somebody performs chest compressions on someone who is in cardiac arrest to help keep them alive.
Imagine an emergency unfolding. We’re on our way, but you’re already there. That’s why we need you – because your actions in those first few minutes could save a life. And the good news? You don’t need to be a doctor to help.