How to Train With a Defibrillator

Training with a defibrillator or automatic external defibrillator (AED) can be taught as a separate course but is normally included with cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training for a basic life support (BLS) certificate. Classes that focus on AED knowledge and skills competency go into greater didactic detail on the use of defibrillators and hands-on training is more concentrated. Besides EMS units and medical facilities having defibrillators, they are commonly found many places. Malls, sports venues, businesses and homes have these life-saving machines and equipment in the event of emergency cardiac arrests.

Instructions

• 1

  Take a class that offers hands-on training with a defibrillator. Have a CPR certificate if the AED and CPR class are not combined or you are taking an advanced AED course. The American Heart Association, American Red Cross and National Safety Council have local classes that can be found in the phonebook or on the internet.

• 2

  Study the manual or material ahead of time that you received as part of the course registration.

• 3

  Dress casually for the defibrillator training class; crawling on the floor is part of the experience. Depending on the class you chose, they normally last for several hours. Bring a lunch, snack and beverage; there will be several short breaks.

• 4

  Check for unresponsiveness in the patient. Follow the CPR guidelines for checking the breathing, pulse and opening the airway. Prepare to use the AED when CPR does not bring about a pulse.

• 5

  Attach the defibrillator electrode pads to a bare, dry, chest; remove thick hair that could impede contact. Situate the pads on the upper right and left lower chest area below the heart; the electrical current must pass through the heart as it passes from one pad to the other. Instructions are found on the electrode pad packaging. The electrode pad has the wiring attached to it on AED's, there are no paddles involved, like the type hospitals use.

• 6

  Turn on the AED. Call out to clear away anyone touching the patient. The defibrillator will analyze any heart rhythm either automatically or when the "analyze" button is pushed. You will be prompted to engage the "shock" button or continue CPR. Check the pulse and continue CPR for one minute before re-analyzing the heart rhythm when advised.

• 7

  Prepare to use the "shock" button when the analysis advises. Call out for everyone to clear away and not touch the patient. Call out loud again when pressing the "shock" button. Analyze for a heart rhythm, "shock" three times if the AED advises you to do so. Do CPR compressions and breathing for one minute, analyze and give three consecutive shocks. Continue this cycle until the patient has revived or emergency medical services assistance arrives.

• 8

  Follow the AED guided steps: turn on the machine, analyze, and follow the audio or visual advice. Hands-on training with a defibrillator will help you to be confident and less anxious when a real-life incident calls you to action.