Help! When do you use an AED?

Nowadays you can find an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) in more and more public places. More and more commonly, private individuals are now also purchasing AEDs. Maybe you have also seen one and wonder: "When do you use an AED?".  You'll read about it in this blog! 

AEDs save lives! When you use an AED during a resuscitation, the chances of someone surviving a cardiac arrest are many times higher than when you only use classical CPR with chest compression and ventilation. This is why it is important to use an AED device in cases of cardiac arrest.  An AED can reset the hearts rhythm by administering a shock, allowing it to beat normally again. Cardiac arrest may occur when someone is unconscious and no longer breathing normally. Read more about this in our blog "How do you recognise a cardiac arrest?". 

Can you always use an AED? 

You can always use an AED, even when in doubt, this is because the AED first performs a test to analyse whether the victim's heart has a shockable rhythm. With a normal heart rhythm or no heart activity at all, no shock will be given. This is why you cannot use an AED incorrectly. You do not need to be a professional to use an AED, because of the spoken and/or visual instructions, anyone can operate an AED. Using an AED is 100% safe. 

When do you turn on an AED? 

Always phone the emergency services first in cases of a suspected cardiac arrest, if you are not alone, get someone else to turn on the AED whilst you are phoning the emergency services. The AED will immediately start giving the necessary instructions to the user. By deploying an AED and resuscitating the victim, you ensure that no precious time is wasted whilst waiting for the emergency services to arrive. 

Buying an AED 

Have you decided to buy an AED now? At Medisol we offer AEDs from various brands. Be sure to have a look at our extensive range or contact our friendly experts for advice.