ZOLL® AED Plus and Pads

How to Use a Defibrillator: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

In our everyday lives, emergencies can happen at any moment. One such dire situation is a sudden cardiac arrest, an abrupt cessation of the heart’s electrical system to function. It’s one of the leading causes of death globally. In these critical heart attack moments, an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), colloquially known as a “defib”, becomes an invaluable piece of medical equipment that can help save a life. Hence, the importance of understanding how to use this device cannot be understated. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of using an AED effectively.

 

What Is a Defibrillator?

Before diving into how to use a defibrillator, let’s first understand what this device is. A defibrillator is designed to restore a regular heartbeat by sending an electric pulse or shock to the heart. It’s used to prevent or correct an arrhythmia, an uneven heartbeat, or the heart’s rhythm is too slow or fast. Defibrillators can also restore the heart’s beating if the person’s heart suddenly stops.

 

How Does a Defibrillator Work?

A defibrillator is designed to restore a regular heartbeat by sending an electric pulse or shock to the heart. It’s used to prevent heart attacks or correct an arrhythmia – an uneven heartbeat that is too slow or fast. Defibrillators can also restart the heart’s beating if it suddenly stops. The AED scans the patient’s heart for abnormal rhythms and prompts the user to deliver an electric shock if it detects a rhythm requiring defibrillation.

 

Steps for Using an AED

 

  1. Turn on the AED: Once turned on, the device will start delivering voice-guided instructions.
  2. Prepare the Patient: Ensure the patient’s chest is bare. Remove any clothing, jewellery, or other items that might interfere with the pads.
  3. Attach the AED Pads: Place one pad to the right of the sternum, below the collarbone, and the other near the left armpit.
  4. Let the AED Analyse: The AED will analyse the patient’s heart rhythm. It’s important not to touch the patient during this time.
  5. Administer the Shock: If the AED advises, press the shock button, ensuring nobody is touching the patient.
  6. Continue CPR: Regardless of whether a shock is delivered, continue with CPR until help arrives.

 

What happens after using a defibrillator?

Once you’ve used a defibrillator and delivered a shock, it’s crucial to resume CPR immediately. Continue with cycles of 30 chest compressions to 2 breaths. The AED will continue to analyse the victim or person’s heart rhythm every two minutes and instruct you to deliver additional shocks if needed.

The arrival of professional medical help marks the next phase of emergency services. Even if the victim appears to have recovered, they must still be taken to a hospital for a thorough check-up and further treatment as necessary. A cardiac arrest is a serious event; additional medical intervention is essential.

 

Can I get hurt using a defib?

AEDs are designed to be extremely safe for both the user and the victim. The device will only instruct you to deliver a shock if it detects a rhythm of a heart beating that can be treated by defibrillation. Nevertheless, ensuring that no one, including you, is touching the victim when the shock is delivered is essential. This prevents the accidental conduction of electricity. So, while using a defibrillator, you must heed the AED’s audible instructions to “stand clear” before delivering a shock.

 

Can I use a defib on a child?

Yes, you can use an AED on a child. Many AEDs come with paediatric pads and a setting for reduced energy levels suitable for children. If a paediatric mode or pads aren’t available, you can use adult pads but try to ensure that they do not touch or overlap each other on the child’s chest.

 

How to use a defibrillator on a woman?

Using a defibrillator on a woman follows the same procedure as for a man. However, if a woman is wearing a bra, it should be removed to ensure the pads can be placed correctly. After ensuring the woman’s privacy, the pads should be placed on the bare skin, one beneath the collarbone and the other to the side of the left breast, following the AED’s visual guides.

 

Do I have to remove the bra when using an AED?

Yes, if a woman is wearing a bra, it should be removed before applying the AED pads. This ensures that the pads have direct contact with the skin, allowing for a more effective electrical shock. Any metal in the bra could potentially cause burns or interfere with the electrical current if it is in the path of the shock.

 

What if I use the AED, and it doesn’t shock the victim?

An AED will only advise a shock if it detects a shockable heart rhythm. If it doesn’t advise a shock, it doesn’t mean the victim is fine. They still need immediate medical attention. Continue performing CPR until medical help arrives.

 

The Importance of Defibrillator Training

Although AEDs are designed to be user-friendly, training to use them effectively and confidently is crucial. First Aid courses provide hands-on experience, medical training, and knowledge, making you better equipped to handle cardiac arrest emergencies.

Defibrillators are vital life-saving tools. Having the knowledge and confidence to use one could mean the difference between life and death in a cardiac arrest emergency. It’s a skill that can be quickly learned, and yet it has the power to save lives.

To summarise, knowing how to use a defibrillator is a crucial skill. You never know when you may need to use this knowledge to potentially save a life. We should all familiarise ourselves with these devices and consider undertaking a training course. They are easy to use, but in a panic-inducing situation, having that prior hands-on experience could help save a life.

 

The Importance of Knowing How to Use an Automated External Defibrillator

The mastery of using automated external defibrillators (AEDs) is pivotal in sudden cardiac arrest, often associated with coronary artery disease. These devices, designed for accessibility and ease of use, can be a determining factor between life and death during critical moments. By comprehending the function and operation of manual defibrillators and AEDs, you’re arming yourself with an essential life-preserving skill.

An AED works by restoring the normal heart rhythm in cases of ventricular fibrillation, a disorder where the heart beats with rapid, erratic electrical impulses. This impairs the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively, causing a severe disruption in blood flow, which can lead to cardiac arrest.

Given the prevalence of coronary artery disease and the risk of cardiac emergencies, understanding the deployment of AEDs is crucial. When complemented with the necessary hands-on experience, this understanding equips you with the potential to save lives during these urgent medical episodes.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


0
    0
    Your Cart
    Your cart is empty
      Calculate Shipping
      Apply Coupon
      Cart & Checkout
      Scroll to Top