Automated external defibrillators can help save lives during sudden cardiac arrest. However, even after training, remembering the steps to use an AED the right way can be difficult. In order to help keep your skills sharp, we've created a quick step-by-step guide that you can print up and place on your refrigerator, in your car, in your bag or at your desk. This way, you can review the AED steps any time, at your convenience, and keep them fresh in your memory.
How to Use An AED
These AED steps should be used when caring for a non-breathing child aged 8 or older who weighs more than 55 pounds, or an adult.
After checking the scene and ensuring that the person needs help, you should ask a bystander to call 911 for help, then:
1Complete the CHECK and CALL steps
2As soon as an AED is available, turn it on and follow the voice prompts
3Remove clothing and attach pads correctly
- Remove all clothing covering the chest. If necessary, wipe the chest dry
- Place one pad on the upper right side of the chest
- Place the other pad on the lower left side of the chest, a few inches below the left armpit
Note: If the pads may touch, place one pad in the middle of the chest and the other pad on the back, between the shoulder blades
4Plug the pad connector cable into the AED, if necessary
5Prepare to let the AED analyze the heart’s rhythm
- Make sure no one is touching the person
- Say, “CLEAR!” in a loud, commanding voice
6Deliver a shock, if the AED determines one is needed
- Make sure no one is touching the person
- Say, “CLEAR!” in a loud, commanding voice
- Push the “shock” button to deliver the shock
7After the AED delivers the shock, or if no shock is advised, immediately start CPR, beginning with compressions
Be prepared for moments that matter by taking an AED class and you could help save a life.
If you are interested in purchasing an AED for your organization, learn more about our exclusive offers.
Summary
Read the full fact sheet- Always call triple zero (000) in an emergency. This fact sheet is not a substitute for proper CPR training by an accredited organisation.
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) combines rescue breathing (mouth-to-mouth) and chest compressions to temporarily pump enough blood to the brain until specialised treatment is available.
- Chest compressions are the priority in CPR. If you can't to do rescue breathing (mouth-to-mouth) chest compressions alone may still be life-saving. Try to minimise interruptions to chest compressions until help arrives.
- CPR is a life-saving skill that everyone should learn. Courses are available.
- CPR works on the principle of 30 chest compressions and 2 breaths of rescue breathing (mouth-to-mouth) – known as 30:2).
- Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) can be used by anyone in an emergency and are easy to use. Voice prompts guide you through what to do.
- The steps involved in CPR are known as DRSABCD (or ‘doctors ABCD’).
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
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