Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Guidelines
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Application of AED pads
: Shave chest hair if so excessive it will prevent a good seal between
electrodes (pads) and skin. Chest must be dry and free of oil. Press pads to skin.
Defibrillator Application
1.
Turn on the defibrillator as soon as it arrives at the scene and follow its prompts.
2.
If more than one ERT or Early Defibrillation Response Team member is present, one can
apply the defibrillation pads and operate the defibrillator while the other continues CPR
until told to stop.
Defibrillator Heart Rhythm Analysis
1.
When the pads are properly attached to the patient and connected to the defibrillator,
the device will automatically analyze the patient for a shockable rhythm – such as
ventricular fibrillation (VF).
2.
Ensure that no one touches the patient during rhythm analysis.
3.
On completion of rhythm analysis, the defibrillator will prompt the rescuers as to the
appropriate course of action. Follow the device prompts in treating the patient.
Defibrillation Safety Precautions
1.
If the defibrillator gives a “Shock Advised” prompt, first ensure that no one is touching
by examining the patient area and loudly stating “I’m clear, you’re clear, everyone
clear!”
2.
Then press the shock button to deliver a shock to the patient as prompted.
3.
Shock delivery will be followed by re-analysis of the patient’s heart rhythm by the
defibrillator.
4.
If additional shocks are advised by the defibrillator, follow the above sequence until the
defibrillator prompts otherwise or EMS arrives.
Defibrillation Shock Sequence
Based upon early defibrillation response protocols and in accordance with defibrillator
prompts, administer a shock to the patient, followed by two (2) minutes of CPR if signs of
circulation are absent.
No Shock Advised Procedure
1.
If the defibrillator gives a “No Shock Advised” prompt and the patient is not breathing
and has no signs of circulation, administer CPR until the patient regains signs of
circulation, the defibrillator advises to stop CPR for analysis, or EMS arrives and assumes
care of the patient.
2.
If the patient is not breathing but does have signs of circulation, perform rescue
breathing until the patient regains adequate respiration, the defibrillator advises to not
touch the patient for analysis, or EMS arrives and assumes patient care.
3.
Conduct continuous monitoring of the patient’s condition and evaluation of rescue in
accordance with ERT or Early Defibrillation Response Team training.
