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Instructions for the Philips AED

The Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a device that is used to analyze cardiac rhythm in an individual who is thought to be in cardiac arrest. If the device determines that a specific cardiac rhythm is present, it will deliver a defibrillation shock through the electrodes that have been placed on the person's chest. An AED can be operated by a lay person as it verbally takes you through the steps for use.

Things You'll Need

  • AED machine
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Instructions

  1. Assess the Victim

    • 1

      Make sure the environment is safe for you to approach the victim. Attempt to arouse the victim using verbal and physical means. If there is no response, check for breathing and a pulse.

    • 2

      Call 911 or instruct another person to activate Emergency Medical Services. If it is established that the victim is not breathing and does not have a pulse, begin CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). (CPR requires additional training not addressed in this article).

    • 3

      Continue CPR until an AED machine has been located and set up.

    AED Setup and Operation

    • 4

      Remove upper body clothing from the victim and be sure the skin is dry. Turn on the AED machine and attach the electrodes according to the diagram provided with the machine.

    • 5

      Press the "analyze" button and the machine will analyze the victim's cardiac rhythm. BE SURE THAT NO ONE IS TOUCHING THE VICTIM.

    • 6

      Press the "shock" button if instructed by the machine (if an appropriate cardiac rhythm is detected). Again--BE SURE THAT NO ONE IS TOUCHING THE VICTIM.

    • 7

      Follow the instructions given by the AED machine after the shock is administered. This may require you to resume CPR prior to a second analysis of the cardiac rhythm.

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