Saving Lives
A defibrillator or automated external defibrillator is a device that can restore normal heart rhythm to a person whose heart has stopped. The defibrillator is designed to be used by the lay public while waiting for medical professionals to arrive. This is important because most cardiac emergencies happen in the home and outside of a hospital. Take a certification class through the American Red Cross or American Heart Association to ensure that you learn to use a defibrillator properly. There are many manufacturers that make and sell a variety of models of AEDs. During your training course your instructor will help you find the right model for your level of training. The American Heart Association notes that: "Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and early defibrillation with an automated external defibrillator (AED) more than double a victim's chance of survival." For every minute that goes by without a defibrillator, the victim's chances of survival drop 7 percent to 10 percent.
AEDs
AEDs are designed to guide you through every step of the process. As soon as you open the AED, you will receive verbal and visual instructions as to what steps you should take. First check the victim for responsiveness, a pulse and breathing. If there is no pulse and the victim is not breathing, Attach the AED's pad wires to the machine. This usually involves simply plugging the pads into the machine. You will then place the pads on the victim's chest. Where you place the pads will vary depending on if the victim is an adult, child or pregnant. AED machines are equipped with specific pads to be used in each situation. There are covers on the pads that show you exactly where to place them.
Analyzing the Situation
The defibrillator will attempt to detect a pulse. The American Heart Association states that: "An AED can check a person's heart rhythm. It can recognize a rhythm that requires a shock." You will need to stand back and not touch the victim as it analyzes the victim's heart rhythm. If no shock is advised you likely will start CPR. If a shock is necessary, you will press a button to deliver a shock. The more expensive defibrillators automatically administer a shock.
After the shock
Once the heart's normal rhythm is restored, begin CPR. Continue the cycle of CPR AED shocks until medical help arrives. Some machines come equipped with a metronome that will help you maintain the right rhythm of chest compressions and breaths.
