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Three Simple AED steps
There are many different brands of
AEDs, but the same basic steps apply to all of them. If the
patient is unresponsive and not breathing adequately, follow
these steps.
1. Turn on AED
Turning on the AED activates the voice prompts,
bare the patients chest.
2. Follow the voice and visual prompts.
Remove the disposable electrode pads from the
packaging. Make sure to choose the correct pads (adult or
child). Do not use child pads/system for an adult. Look at
the graphic images on each electrode as a guide for proper
pad placement. Remove the self-adhesive backing and attach
the electrodes to the patient’s bare chest. Make sure
the electrode attaches firmly to the skin. Do not apply the
pad over a female’s breast as it may decrease effectiveness.
Most AEDs will automatically begin to analyze a patient’s
heart rhythm when the electrodes are fully attached. Some
will prompt you to push a button to analyze. Ensure that nobody
touches the patient while the AED is analyzing the heart rhythm.
3. Shock/No Shock
If a shock is indicated, check to make sure
no one is touching the patient. Loudly say “clear”
or something similar. Push the shock button and immediately
resume chest compressions.
If no shock is indicated, immediately
resume chest compressions.
Perform 5 cycles of 30 compressions
and 2 breaths and then very briefly reassess the rhythm. Continue
as directed by the AED.
Operator Error
Research shows that errors by AED
operators do occur, and Include Interference In AED operation
by unnecessary movement (CPR during rhythm analysis), Inappropriately
turning the AED off, pads falling off or being disconnected,
failure to deliver shock when It is advised, Inappropriate
shock delivered, and Interference from movement other than
CPR. Very few rhythms are mismanaged by AEDs. AED operators
must listen carefully to and follow the AED s ; prompts.
CAUTION.
Never push the ANALYZE button when
moving a patient on a stretcher or in an ambulance with an
AED attached. It may stimulate ventricular fibrilation. Stop
movement and then analyze.
Troubleshooting an AED
If an AED detects a problem during use, a voice/visual prompt,
screen message, or lit icon will be displayed. Stay calm and
do what the AED tells you to do. lf a message indicating motion
occurs, make sure the cables are not being moved around. If
a message regarding the battery is displayed, the battery
is probably low. The AED will prompt you to change the battery.
Maintenance and Quality Assurance
AEDS perform regular self-tests to
make sure they are ready for use. If an AED fails a self-test,
it will alert you with an audible and/or visual prompt. Contact
authorized service personnel immediately. AEDS should be Inspected
monthly lf the AED has a visual status indicator, check it
to make sure it shows the device is operational. Examine the
expiration dates on pad packages and spare batteries. Inspect
for obvious damage.
Make sure the battery and a replacement
battery (or batteries) is fully operational and ready to use.
AEDS should be stored with the necessary equipment to respond
to a cardiac arrest. The equipment should include, at minimum,
personal protective equipment (CPR shield or mask and disposable
gloves), utility scissors (to cut clothing and expose chest),
a disposable razor (to shave a hairy chest), disposable towels
(to dry chest), and a plastic biohazard bag (to dispose of
used supplies).
AED Program
An AED program should be part of an overall system of quality
assurance, Including medical oversight, training, data collection
and evaluation.
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