Defibrillation AEDs

Men experience 66% of sudden cardiac arrests

25,000 people die from cardiac arrest each year

AEDs are easy to use and save lives

WHAT IS

an AED?

Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are lightweight, portable devices that deliver an electric shock to a heart in cardiac arrest, to help the heart re-establish an effective rhythm. This electric shock allows the heart to resume pumping blood and oxygen throughout the body, so that organs can function properly. 

Together with CPR, an AED can save a life. 

HOW DO I

Operate an AED?

Modern AEDs are very easy to use. With voice-aided CPR coaching and clear diagrams for electrode placement, you can administer a shock within a few seconds. They allow you to help save a life with just the touch of a button. 

If you have access to a defibrillator, follow these instructions

  1. Kneel down next to the patient and turn on the AED device.
  2. Remove any clothes that may be obstructing the patient’s chest area. You must apply the connected electrodes to a bare chest.
  3. The device will search for the patient’s heartbeat, before advising if a shock is necessary.
  4. Deliver a single shock to the patient when directed.
  5. Return to performing chest compressions to re-establish a consistent and strong heartbeat.
  6. Follow any further instructions from the AED, until emergency services arrive.

More First Aid Posts

Collection of white and grey clouds in the sky
25
Mar

How To Be Prepared For An Emergency During Storm Season

With storm season kicking in, you can bet those intense Australian storms are just around the corner. Here’s a guide on how to prepare for an emergency during storm season. Secure your yard Have you taken a look around your yard and identified anything that could be a potential missile? If a storm hits, anything...
Read More
10
Dec

Why Don’t Australians Know First Aid?

Australia is home to deadly snakes, treacherous countryside, endless highways, deceptively dangerous surf and increasing bushfires. With these dangers being so common, you would be forgiven for thinking that Australians must lead the way in first aid training. According to the Red Cross, you couldn’t be more wrong. In fact, Australia has perhaps the lowest...
Read More