Adult AED Use
Use DRABC to remember the primary assessment sequence.
Use DRABC to remember the primary assessment sequence.
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a safe, reliable, computerised device that can analyse heart rhythms and enable a non-medically qualified rescuer to safely deliver a shock. The use of an AED, if used promply can drastically increase the chance of surviving a cardiac arrest.
Modern AEDs will follow the same sequence during a rescue. There are some considerations:
in CPR
heart rhythm
every 2 minutes if needed
If you have a helper ask them to continue CPR while you get the AED ready. If they are untrained ask them to give chest compressions only:
"Imperfect care given is better than perfect care withheld."
A perfectly normal reaction when dealing with medical emergencies. However you must trust your training. When you follow the priorities of care as outlined during your course you are giving the casualty the best possible chance of survival.
Some may hesitate when thinking about how they may feel if the casualty does not recover after delivering first aid. There is no guarantee that a casualty will live or reciver but be confident that what you offer has the potential to make a difference.
People hesitate thinking they can not properly help an injured or ill casualty. It is seldom true that the smallest of errors will hurt or kill a casualty. If you focus on perfection you´ll have the tendancy to do nothing at all.
The most serious medical emergency is when a casualty is not responsive and not breathing. Some people fear they may make them worse, however it is not possible to make someone worse who is already in the worst state of health.
Some people fear being infected by the person they are assisting. Research has shown that the chance of this happening by performing CPR is very low and in any case you may use barriers to minimise the risk of disease transmission.
People are afraid of helping because of the fear of being sued. In most regions of the world there are accepted legal doctrines and laws that have been put in place to encourage people to come to the aid of others.