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A fully Automated External Defibrillator also known as an AED and a semi – automated defibrillator as a SAED is a machine that can analyse the heart rhythm, and:
An AED will analyse a rhythm to detect if the heart is contracting normally. If not, the AED will deliver a brief electric shock which may restore normal heart rhythm. Initiate the first aid priority action plan (DRSABCD) and include the following actions:
| Initiate the first aid priority action plan (DRSABC) and include the following actions |
|
| If shock is indicated |
If a shock is indicated:
|
There are many brands and models of defibrillators on the market. While they may differ in design, all are very similar in operation. Examples of an AED:
Why use an AED?
The use of an AED in the first few minutes following a cardiac arrest can dramatically increase the chance of survival of the casualty. Other reasons include:
When using AED:
Pad placement – Adult.
To apply the pads on an adult casualty, simply peel the backing from each pad and place in the position indicated:
Proper positioning of the pads is crucial to guarantee the heart receives the appropriate shock level. Before application, make sure the casualty’s chest is dry and devoid of excess hair. Simply remove any moisture with a dry cloth and, if necessary, use a disposable razor to clear excessive hair.
Image source: Australian and New Zealand Committee on Resuscitation
Pad placement – Child.
Standard adult AEDs and pads are appropriate for children aged 8 years and older and weighing more than 25kg. These pads should be positioned following the same guidelines as for adults, with diagrams provided to indicate their placement on the chest.
In cases where the AED lacks a paediatric mode or specific paediatric pads, using standard adult AED pads is acceptable. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the pads do not touch each other on the child’s chest. Apply the pad firmly to the bare chest in the anterior-lateral position, like the placement for adults. If the pads are too large, especially for younger children and there’s a risk of pad-to-pad arcing, consider using the front-back position. In this position, one pad is placed on the upper back (between the shoulder blades), and the other pad is placed on the front of the chest, preferably slightly to the left.
Image source: Australia Wide First Aid
Pad placement – Infant.
It is preferable to use paediatric pads and an AED equipped with paediatric capabilities in infants less than 1 years of age. If a paediatric AED is not available, continue with CPR until help arrives.
Image source: Australia Wide First Aid
How to do CPR and use a defibrillator
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0aIXof8lK8
Safety and maintenance procedures for an AED
Ensure you establish a routine for regular, daily inspections to verify the good condition of your equipment and to detect any warning indicators. Keep an eye out for warning icons or lights on the machine or listen for audible alerts akin to those of a malfunctioning smoke detector battery.
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) conduct self-assessments on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. You may hear it emitting beeps during these automated battery and system checks. It will signal if it detects any issues.
Pads that have been utilized must be promptly replaced. It’s crucial to replace expired batteries and AED pads according to their designated expiration dates, typically ranging from 3 to 5 years. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines in these instances.
In addition to daily and self-inspections, ensure the following tasks are carried out every three (3) months:
Inspect the batteries to ensure they are not expired or damaged
Image Source: Royal Life Saving Western Australia
Western Australia Campus Address:
Level 6, 202 Pier Street, Perth WA 6000
South Australia Campus Address:
Level 1, 144 North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000
