Every year, thousands of lives are lost due to sudden cardiac arrest. Immediate intervention with CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and the use of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) can significantly increase the chances of survival. Understanding how and when to use these life-saving tools is crucial for everyone.
What is an AED?
An AED is a small, portable machine that can help restart someone’s heart if it stops beating correctly. It sends a small electric shock to the heart, which can fix the heart’s rhythm and make it start beating normally again. AEDs are made to be easy to use, even if you’re not a medical professional.
How to Use an AED
- Turn on the AED: Most AEDs have an ON button or will turn on automatically when the lid is opened.
- Follow the Voice Prompts: The device will give you clear, step-by-step instructions.
- Attach the Pads: Place the adhesive pads on the patient’s bare chest as illustrated on the pads themselves. One pad should be placed on the upper right side of the chest, and the other on the lower left side.
- Stand Clear: Ensure no one is touching the patient while the AED analyzes the heart rhythm.
- Deliver the Shock: If a shock is advised, ensure everyone is clear of the patient and press the shock button.
- Resume CPR: After the shock, or if no shock is advised, immediately resume CPR until emergency medical services (EMS) take over or the person shows signs of life.
When to Use an AED
An AED should be used when a person is unresponsive, not breathing, or not breathing normally (gasping). Time is critical in such scenarios. The quicker an AED is used, the better the chances of survival.
Understanding CPR
CPR is a way to help someone whose heart has stopped beating. It helps pump blood and oxygen through their body until their heart can start working again.
How to Perform CPR Correctly
- Check Responsiveness: Gently tap the person and shout, “Are you okay?” to see if there is any response.
- Call for Help: If the person is unresponsive, call emergency services immediately. If there are bystanders, instruct someone to find an AED.
- Open the Airway: Tilt the head back slightly to open the airway.
- Check for Breathing: Look, listen, and feel for no more than 10 seconds to see if the person is breathing normally.
- Begin Chest Compressions:
- Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest, with the other hand on top, interlocking your fingers.
- Position your shoulders directly over your hands and keep your arms straight.
- Push hard and fast, compressing the chest at least 2 inches deep at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
- Give Rescue Breaths (if trained and willing):
- After 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths.
- Pinch the person’s nose shut, tilt their head back, and give a breath that makes the chest rise.
- If the chest doesn’t rise, re-tilt the head and try again.
- Continue CPR: Keep performing cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until an AED is ready to use, EMS takes over, or the person starts to show signs of life.
Key Tips for Effective CPR
- Push Hard and Fast: Ensure compressions are at least 2 inches deep and at a rate of 100-120 per minute. (Similar to the beat of “Staying Alive” by the BeeGees for reference)
- Don’t Stop: Try not to take long breaks between pushes to keep the blood flowing.
- Let the Chest Come Up: Make sure to let the chest come all the way up between pushes.
Knowing how to use an AED and do CPR can make a big difference in an emergency. With practice and knowing what to do, you can help save someone’s life when they need it most. Stay informed, be ready to act, and encourage others to learn these important skills too. You never know when you might be the one who saves a life!