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Emergency Management

AED FAQS

An AED is intended for use on someone experiencing cardiac arrest, specifically ventricular fibrillation and tachycardia. It is only to be used if the victim is unconscious, pulseless, and not breathing. The first step in this situation is to have someone call 911. Opening the cabinet sends a silent alarm to BYU dispatch, but it is always best to call as well, to ensure someone is notified. STAY CALM - it’s important to be efficient, but you’re not going to do any good if your rush causes you to make mistakes. Using the machine is very self-explanatory. You don’t need to be CPR certified to use this machine; it will guide you on what to do.

  • An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a medical device designed to treat sudden cardiac arrest. This condition occurs when ventricular fibrillation (VF) disrupts the heart’s rhythm, causing it to stop beating. If an individual becomes unconscious, has no pulse, or is not breathing, 911 should be called immediately. After calling 911, the AED can be used to determine the next course of action.

  • After calling 911 and confirming that the person is indeed unconscious, pulseless, and not breathing, the AED can help administer medical attention until first responders arrive.

    First, the AED unit should be turned on. The unit will begin providing instructions on how to use the device. Each AED unit includes a small pair of scissors and a disposable razor. Any clothing covering the person’s chest should be removed, including bras and any undergarments that might prevent the pads from sticking directly to the skin. If the person has body hair that could interfere with the pads sticking, it may need to be shaved off quickly.

    The instructions provided by the AED should be followed carefully. The pads should be placed once all clothing or hair has been removed. It is important not to touch the person while the AED analyzes their vitals.

    Depending on the symptoms detected by the AED, the instructions should be followed exactly until help arrives.

  • The sooner, the better. The chances of a successful defibrillation using an AED decrease with each passing minute.

  • Yes, as long as the AED is used properly.

  • Not every cardiac arrest is caused by ventricular fibrillation; in such cases, the AED will instruct to begin CPR instead of delivering a shock.

  • Some devices indicate “shock delivered,” but it can also be observed by the chest twitching in response to the electric shock.

  • The person should be dried as best as possible, quickly. If their chest is wet, the AED pads may not stick properly. If the patient cannot be safely and quickly moved to a dry surface, all bystanders should move as far as possible off the wet surface.

  • The AED is designed to shock only VF and will not shock other heart rhythms. However, AEDs are not perfect and should only be attached to a person who is unconscious and has collapsed.

  • As close as possible. The pads are most effective when placed in the correct spots.

  • If the person has an obvious implanted device (visible scar, and/or implanted device under the skin), the pad should be placed as close as possible to the designated area without touching the device.

  • While this is unlikely, the AED should remain on, and the pads should not be removed. Unless the person tries to sit up, they should be placed on their side to allow saliva to drain out without blocking the airway.

  • No. Various factors beyond the person’s heart condition may affect their chance of survival.