An Automated External Defibrillator is a small, portable device that can save a life if someone’s heart stops suddenly. It checks the person’s heartbeat and only gives an electric shock if it is needed. AEDs are very safe and easy to use, even if you don’t have medical training.
What to do in an emergency
If you find someone who is unresponsive, call 999 or 112 immediately. Ask someone nearby to fetch a defibrillator while you start CPR. If you are alone, put the phone on speaker so you can follow the emergency call handler’s instructions while performing CPR. For more detailed guidance on AEDs, you can check the official UK advice here
Practising AED use during emergency first aid training courses, like the examples seen here, tidaltraining.co.uk/emergency-first-aid-training-courses/, helps you stay confident and ready to act in a real emergency.
Using the AED
First, turn it on and follow the voice instructions. Remove clothing from the person’s chest and make sure it is dry. Put one of the pads on the right side of the chest and the other pad on the left. For babies or small children, one pad should go in the middle of the chest and the other on the back between their shoulder blades.The AED will tell you whether a shock is needed. If it is, don’t touch the person and press the button when instructed and continue CPR as directed by the device. If the person starts breathing normally, put them in the recovery position and keep the AED attached.