Overview

AED stands for Automated External Defibrillator. An automated external defibrillator is a portable device that checks the heart rhythm. If needed, it can send an electric shock to the heart to try to restore a normal rhythm. AEDs are used to treat sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). In this module we will show you where the three defibrillators are located here at Concordia and cover when and how to use this device. This machine is a lifesaver. Don’t be afraid to use it!

Step-by-Step

Complete the assignments and quiz.

Assignment

Watch the video overview
Read the information about AED's below.
Take the AED quiz.
Complete this selfie (yes selfie) assignment.

Key Points to Remember

An AED is a life saver-it would never be wrong to apply the AED.
AED stands for Automated External Defibrillator. It is a portable, easy to use device that identifies the heart rhythm of a victim and will administer an electric shock if appropriate. It gives instructions by speaking to you.
Be sure to yell CLEAR and make sure no one (including you) is touching the patient if a shock is indicated.
Concordia has three AEDs on campus:

Outside Nurse's office
Outside phoenix café
HS basement outside of weight room

Readings

AED: Automated External Defibrillator

An AED is a medical device used to detect a person’s heart rhythm and will administer an electric shock if needed to reestablish heart rhythm.

It is used to treat Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA).

Time is of the essence, do not hesitate to use an AED, it can save a life. It would never be wrong to apply an AED.

Each AED is different, but all are created to be easily used by anyone. Just follow instructions coming from the AED. Some will have a power button, some will start instructing once it is opened.

The device will instruct you to apply pads, this means to take the pads out of the package, peel off backing and apply to victims chest. There will be a picture on the packaging to show you where to place them. Apply directly to the skin. If the skin is wet, try to dry off quickly. Or if victim is in water, safely move them to a dry area first.

If a shock is indicated, be sure to yell out “CLEAR” (we know everybody wants to do that) to everyone so that no one is touching the patient when shock is given.

If a shock is not required, the device will prompt you to continue CPR and will again analyze rhythm within 2-5 minutes.