Understanding when not to use a defibrillator is as critical as knowing how and where to use one. AEDs can save lives during sudden cardiac arrest. Yet, there are times when using them might be wrong or harmful. Spotting these moments can greatly help keep the person in need safe and well.
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) save more than 1,700 lives in the U.S. each year. Yet, many people don’t know where to find them or how they operate. More awareness and education can raise survival rates and make a bigger difference.
An AED gives an electric shock to the heart. This helps it get back to a normal rhythm. It’s the only effective way to respond to sudden cardiac arrest.
Knowing when and where to use an AED is vital. It’s equally important to understand situations where it shouldn’t be used. Some people with certain heart conditions may not be good candidates for defibrillation. Understanding this is vital for effective emergency response.
When to Use an AED (defibrillator)
An AED is for use only when a person is unresponsive and not breathing normally. These signs mean sudden cardiac arrest is happening and immediate help is needed.
- Their heart suddenly stops beating
- They are experiencing Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). Symptoms are immediate and drastic and include:
- No breathing or gasping noises, paired with abnormal breathing
- Unresponsive
- Unconscious
- No pulse
If someone has a sudden cardiac arrest, call 911. Start CPR immediately. Also, have someone find an AED. With most cardiac arrests happening at home, it’s vital to be prepared with a clear emergency plan.
When NOT to Use an AED (defibrillator)
Some situations call for extra caution when deciding whether and how to use an AED. Each device has its own usage guidelines. So, owners should read their unit’s instructions carefully.
The victim is conscious and breathing normally.
Do not use an AED if the person is awake and breathing normally. Defibrillation is not needed then.
An AED should be used when someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally. In some sudden cardiac arrest cases, a person might show agonal breathing. This is an irregular, gasping effort that can happen briefly after the heart stops. This type of breathing is not normal and should not delay defibrillation. If a person is unresponsive and takes gasping breaths, treat it as a heart emergency. Use the AED right away.
The victim has a DNR.
If you notice a tattoo or bracelet that says “Do Not Resuscitate” (DNR) on their chest, wrist, or forearm, do not use the AED. A DNR shows their choice to refuse resuscitation, so we must respect that decision.
Faulty AED parts
A malfunctioning AED with damaged or faulty parts may fail during an emergency. If this happens, quickly look for another available unit nearby.
When special AED use circumstances might apply
The patient has a pacemaker or a medication patch.
Pacemakers can handle AED shocks. Yet, don’t place the defibrillator pads directly over the implanted device.
A pacemaker is often visible or can be felt beneath the skin near the upper chest. Always check your AED manual for proper pad placement. Follow the guidelines for using it on people with a pacemaker.
Do not put AED pads on top of medical patches. First, take off the patch, then apply the pads.
The person is wet or lying on a wet surface.
Sudden cardiac arrest can strike unexpectedly, even near water or during rain or snow. Using AEDs in wet conditions can be risky. They deliver an electric shock, so caution is needed. This helps protect both the victim and the responder. Always ensure the area is as dry as possible before applying the device.
An AED should never be used on someone submerged in water. First, move the person to a dry surface, remove any wet clothing from the chest, and dry the skin completely. Only then should you turn on the AED and follow its prompts as you would in any standard situation.
The victim has a hairy chest.
For AED pads to work effectively, they must stick directly to the skin. In cases where someone has excessive chest hair, they may need to remove it to ensure proper contact. Most AED kits come with a razor. Press the pads with firm pressure on the chest if you don’t have one. This will help ensure the best contact.
The person is suffering from a heart attack.
A heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest are different. They involve distinct problems with how the heart works.
- Cardiac arrest is caused by a disruption in the heart’s electrical system, leading it to stop beating. The signals become disorganized instead of following their normal rhythms. This prevents the heart from pumping oxygen-rich blood to the body.
- A heart attack happens when a blocked artery stops blood flow to part of the heart. This blockage causes tissue damage, and the affected muscle starts to die.
During a heart attack, the person is usually conscious and breathing, so an AED isn’t required. Cardiac arrest strikes without warning. It causes the person to collapse, become unresponsive, and stop normal breathing. Cardiac arrest occurs without warning. A heart attack can build up over time or hit without warning.
Safety Considerations for AED Users – Using an AED on Infants and Children
AED pads come in various sizes for adults and kids. It’s crucial to select the right type based on the victim’s age or size. The AED’s manual will guide you on when to use each pad type and note any special instructions.
Use an AED on someone in cardiac arrest. Stay focused and follow the device’s instructions closely:
- Stay clear of any area with flammable vapors, as the AED’s electrical charge could ignite a fire.
- Make sure no one, including yourself, is touching the patient when the AED delivers a shock. Keep the area clear to ensure the shock is delivered safely.
- Don’t use an AED in a moving vehicle. The motion can disrupt the device and prevent it from delivering a safe shock.
Refer to your AED user manual for safety, operation, and maintenance information.
Time is of the essence.
Every minute in cardiac arrest reduces survival chances by 10%. So, it’s crucial to act quickly. Know when to use an AED and where to locate one.
To make a quick and smart decision, ask yourself some key questions.
- Is the AED operational?
- Is this an emergency in which using an AED is necessary?
- Does a person in cardiac arrest need special care? This includes if they have a pacemaker, are an infant or young child, or have a lot of chest hair.
- Are there any unusual situations that might affect the AED’s safety or effectiveness? For example, a damp environment or a faulty device might cause issues.
FAQs
When should an AED be used—before or after CPR?
Use an AED as soon as it becomes available if the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally. Begin CPR immediately while someone retrieves the AED. Once it is ready, pause only briefly to apply the pads and follow the device’s prompts. Using an AED promptly along with CPR significantly enhances the chances of survival.
Can an AED be used on an infant?
Yes, but only with pediatric pads designed for infants or small children. Check your AED’s user manual. It has instructions on pad placement and any age or weight limits. Always use the right pad size when using an AED on younger patients.
Are there any special considerations when using an AED?
Yes, several. Avoid using an AED in wet environments or near flammable vapors. Don’t put pads over a pacemaker or medical patches. Make sure the chest is dry and free of too much hair. This helps the pads adhere securely. These considerations help ensure safe and effective defibrillation.
How much is a defibrillator?
The price of a defibrillator depends on the brand and features. Usually, standard public-access AED units cost between $1,200 and $2,500. Some high-end or portable models can be more expensive. This is especially true for those with extra training or data-tracking features.
What do I do if the person has a pacemaker or a medical condition?
If the individual has a pacemaker, avoid placing AED pads directly over it. Look for a raised bump near the upper chest, and position the pads slightly away. Always check the AED manual for guidance on special considerations when using an AED.
Can I use a defibrillator in a game like Tarkov?
In Tarkov, the term defibrillator means a medical item in the game Escape from Tarkov. It’s fictional and part of how the game works. In real life, AEDs are lifesaving medical devices used during sudden cardiac arrest.
Conclusion
In a sudden cardiac arrest, knowing how to use an AED is crucial. It can mean the difference between life and death. These devices are simple and effective. It’s important to think about special factors. Think about these factors: age, health problems, environmental dangers, and safe pad placement. Staying informed lets you act fast and with confidence. This matters at home, in public, or when you’re feeling stressed.