Resources & FAQs - LifeSure

How To Use Automated External Defibrillators: As Easy As 1-2-3

Follow the AED’s voice prompts and apply the electrodes to patient’s chest.

The AED analyzes patient’s heart rhythm and determines if a shock is needed.

If a shock is advised, the AED machine will instruct you to press the shock button.

What Does AED Stand For?

AED Stands for Automated External Defibrillator

What is a Defibrillator?

A portable electrical device used to counteract fibrillation of the heart muscle and restore a normal heart rhythm by applying a brief electric shock.

Today’s Modern AEDs Have The Following In Common:

How To Use

All modern AEDs are easy to use. These AEDs will instruct you with easy to follow, step-by-step verbal instructions throughout the entire rescue process.

Safety

All modern AEDs are safe to use by virtually anyone because they are programmed to deliver a shock only if the patient needs it. The decision whether the patient needs the defibrillation shock or not is made by the AED and NOT by the rescuer. Therefore, even if the rescuer accidentally presses the shock button, the AED will not deliver the shock.

Electrode Pads

All electrode pads are single use only (disposable). They have a sticky gel coating that can dry out with time, which is why they have an expiration date. Check expiration dates periodically and keep a second set of electrode pads as backup.

Batteries

All AEDs come with a non-rechargeable lithium battery that usually lasts 2 to 5 years in service and then needs to be replaced.

Biphasic Waveforms

Early AEDs were Monophasic (less effective). All modern AEDs are Biphasic, which means, the electrical shock travels in the body from electrode pad A to pad B and then from pad B to pad A. All our AEDs are Biphasic.

Sudden Cardiac Arrest – Chain of Survival

The American Heart Association has defined a “Chain of Survival” that is widely used and followed as the critical response to sudden cardiac arrest.

The “Chain of Survival” contains 6 lifesaving links:

Immediate recognition of cardiac arrest and activation of the emergency response system. Call 911 or EMS as soon as possible. Locate an AED, if available, and bring it to the victim.
Early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), Emphasis fast and hard chest rhythmic chest compressions. This will help maintain blood flow.
Rapid defibrillation. This is where the AED comes in handy. Defibrillation is the only way to restart the heart.
Effective advanced life support. An emergency team should take over from here and provide advanced cardiac care.
Integrated post-cardiac care.
Recovery. This could include additional treatment, observation, rehabilitation, and psychological support.

Helpful AED Links

Following these links can greatly increase the chances of survival and recovery for victims of cardiac arrest.

Cardiac Arrest (SCA) – Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. Blood stops flowing to the rest of the body.
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) – Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are portable, life-saving devices designed to treat people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, a medical condition in which the heart stops beating suddenly and unexpectedly.