Title: AED Use – When and How
Type: Lesson
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable device that checks a person’s heart rhythm and delivers a shock if needed to restore a normal rhythm. It’s used when someone is:
Unresponsive
Not breathing normally
Not showing signs of circulation
AEDs are designed for anyone to use — even with no prior medical training.
Use an AED as soon as it’s available if the person is:
Unconscious
Not breathing or only gasping
Showing no signs of life (no pulse)
Don’t wait for a medical professional to arrive. Early defibrillation can double or triple survival rates.
Turn it on (usually with a power button or by opening the lid)
Follow the voice prompts
Expose the chest and wipe it dry
Attach pads (follow pictures on pads — one on upper right chest, one on lower left side)
Stand clear while the AED analyzes the heart rhythm
If advised, press the shock button
Continue CPR until the AED says otherwise or help arrives
Never touch the person during analysis or shock — it may affect the reading or shock others.
Do not use in standing water or if the victim is wet (dry the chest)
Remove medication patches before placing pads
Do not place pads over pacemakers or metal implants
Use pediatric pads for children under 8 if available
AEDs are easy, fast, and life-saving. If you can follow voice directions, you can use one — and it might mean the difference between life and death.
Click “Mark Complete” to continue to Lesson 4: First Aid for Common Emergencies, where we’ll go over how to manage bleeding, burns, choking, and more.