How To Use an AED/Defibrillator - North Kilkenny CFR Group

An AED, or Automated External Defibrillator, is a life-saving piece of equipment that can be used to try and help return a person's heart to a normal rhythm. Using this device, in combination with providing CPR, will give the individual the best possible chance of survival.

AED's are simple devices to use. The most important thing is to turn the unit on and listen to the prompts. It is impossible to accidentally shock someone who does not require it however it is vital that no one is touching the patient when the machine is analysing the heart rhythm. The machine is designed to look for a "shockable rhythm" and only provides that shock when one has been detected. If someone else is touching the individual, it may interfere with the reading so stay well back. If that specific type of rhythm is not present, it will not allow you to deliver the shock however it will reanalyse the patient every two minutes to see if it becomes present. If a shock is advised, ensure no one is touching the patient as the shock will travel through them as well. Shout "Everyone clear" and look to make sure it is safe before delivering the shock.

Included with the unit will be a set of pads which should be placed on the patient's bare chest in the same places depicted by the pictures on each pad. There should also be a set of shears to help remove any clothes (as pads must not be placed over clothing); a razor to shave the area where the pads are to be placed in the event of excessive hair growth in that spot; a hand cloth to wipe down a wet chest and a pair of gloves which can be worn to remove medicinal patches.

For more information on how to use an AED on an adult, child or infant, and to have an opportunity to practice with a trainer unit, please attend one of our courses. Details on the times and dates of courses can be found in the Training Courses and Fundraising Events section of this website.

To learn more about the location of the publicly available defibrillators in our area, please go to the Additional Information section, AED Location tab.