An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a small, portable device that can make all the difference during a sudden cardiac arrest. When someone’s heart stops beating normally, an AED analyzes their heart’s rhythm and delivers a shock if needed to help restore a normal heartbeat. The best part? AEDs are easy to use for anyone, even without prior training.
The device walks you through each step of the process with clear voice prompts and visual instructions. You simply place adhesive pads on the person’s chest, and the AED will automatically detect the heart’s activity and determine if a shock is necessary. If used quickly, an AED can significantly increase the person’s chances of survival, helping to buy precious time until professional medical help arrives.
However, despite their life-saving potential, many people make mistakes when using AEDs under the stress of an emergency. These mistakes can hamper the effectiveness of the rescue. So, we must understand and avoid these common AED mistakes and act confidently.
The Common AED Mistakes in Resuscitation
AEDs are essential during sudden cardiac arrest. However, even with their easy design, mistakes can happen in a high-stress environment. Here are the most common AED mistakes and how they can impact rescue efforts.
1. Delaying AED Use
One of the biggest mistakes is hesitating to grab and use an AED. Often, people don’t believe in themselves and worry that they might do something wrong. But the truth is that AEDs are very easy to use for anyone, and the longer you wait, the lower your chances of survival. So, acting quickly in such a situation can mean the difference between life and death. Hence, you need to trust yourself and the device. You must understand that it is better to try and act than to wait for someone else to step in.
2. Improper Electrode Pad Placement
If you place the electrode pad in the wrong spot, then AED cannot deliver an effective shock. Many people skip over the placement diagram on the pads in the rush to help. This causes misplacement. So, to avoid this mistake, relax and take a moment to read and follow the simple instructions on the pad, as they are there to guide you. If you are unsure, remember one pad goes on the upper right chest and the other below the left armpit. Making sure good skin contact by removing clothing and wiping away moisture is also important.
3. Not Following AED Instructions
AEDs provide step-by-step directions in an emergency. However, in the panic of the moment, people sometimes ignore or misinterpret the device’s clear prompt. For example, some people press the shock button at the right time or move the victim during analysis, which can disrupt the process. When the AED is serving as a guide, do not panic; just show down and focus on the guidelines. Trust the prompts and follow them to provide the best possible care.
4. Failing to Continue CPR When Needed
Stopping CPR too soon is also another common AED mistake. The AED needs time to analyze the heart rhythms, and during that time, the victim still needs blood and oxygen to circulate. Many people think the AED alone is enough, but CPR is equally important. So, always resume compressions immediately after the AED delivers a shock if the person is not showing any signs of life. Each push keeps oxygen flowing to vital organs.
5. Using the AED on a Non-Cardiac Arrest Victim
AEDs are only meant for victims of sudden cardiac arrest, but in the heat of the moment, it’s easy to misjudge the situation. Using the device on someone who has fainted or is having a seizure, for example, can waste valuable time and delay proper care. If you’re unsure, look for signs like no breathing and no pulse before using the AED. Always remember that AEDs won’t deliver a shock unless they detect a shockable rhythm, so you won’t harm someone by placing the pads.
6. Not Checking the AED Readiness
An AED that isn’t properly maintained can’t help when you need it most. Batteries run out, pads expire, and dust or damage can make the device unusable. So, make time to regularly check AEDs to ensure they are always ready to use in emergencies. Make a habit to include AED maintenance in your home, workplace, or community safety routines. A little attention now can save valuable time in emergencies.
What are the other Common AED Mistakes that can delay resuscitation efforts?
- Failing to replace expired pads or drained batteries leaves the AED unusable in an emergency.
- Neglecting to inspect pads and batteries for damage or low charge, risking device failure when needed.
- Skipping regular functionality checks could result in the AED malfunctioning during a crisis.
- Lacking sufficient training or awareness among users, delaying effective use during an emergency.
How to Avoid The Common AED Mistakes?
If you can use AED correctly in an emergency, you can be the difference between life and death. Hence, to avoid the common AED mistakes, here are some essential steps you can follow:
1. Take an AED Training Course
The most effective way to avoid common mistakes is through proper training. By taking an AED training course, you can learn how to use AED correctly, including how to recognize when it is needed and how to deliver a shock if necessary. You can also join the BLS course at Sacramento CPR Classes and gain essential skills like CPR techniques, airway management, and AED usage. This comprehensive training can help you be confident in emergencies where every second counts.
2. Familiarize Yourself with AED Functionality
You have to understand how an AED works. Before using the device in an emergency, take your time to read through the user manual and become familiar with the buttons, pads, and how to follow the device’s voice prompts.
3. Keep AEDs Maintained and Accessible
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the AED works properly when needed. Check the device periodically for battery life, expired pads, and any other technical issues. Additionally, the AED should be kept in a visible and easily accessible location to quickly retrieve it during an emergency.
4. Follow AED and CPR Guidelines
AEDs should always be used in combination with CPR. You should follow the recommended steps for both AED use and CPR, including giving chest compressions until the AED is ready to deliver a shock. It’s important to act quickly, but you also need to ensure you follow the correct guidelines.
5. Trust the Device
As we have mentioned, one of the most common mistakes is hesitating to use the AED. So, you have to trust the device and its instructions. Modern AEDs are designed to analyze the heart rhythm and only deliver a shock if necessary. If the AED advises shock, follow its direction without hesitation.
Additional Tips for Effective AED Use
- Make sure that the chest is dry and free of any obstructions like clothing, jewelry, or medical patches.
- Place the pads correctly as indicated on the device or packaging.
- Avoid touching the victim during the AED analysis or shock delivery.
- Use pediatric pads or settings if the victim is a child of available.
- Continue CPR between AED prompts to maintain circulation.
- Replace expired pads and batteries as soon as possible to ensure the device is always ready to use.
- Regular AED drills should be performed to familiarize oneself with its use.
Also Read: When to Use AED on a Pediatric Patient During PALS?
Conclusion
AEDs are critical tools in saving lives during cardiac emergencies, but their effectiveness depends on proper and timely usage. Mistakes in using AEDs can significantly impact the success of the rescue. So, staying committed to regular training builds confidence and prepares individuals to act confidently when it matters most.
At Sacramento CPR Classes, we provide hands-on CPR and BLS training that helps you recognize common AED mistakes and develop the skills needed to respond confidently in emergencies. With comprehensive BLS courses, you will be prepared to make a life-saving difference when it matters most.