AED Basics

Importance of Prompt Action

• Calling 911 and starting CPR immediately and using an AED as soon as possible gives the person the best chance for survival.

• Cardiac arrest can occur when the electrical impulses that cause the heart to contract rhythmically become abnormal, disorganized, and chaotic.

• The heart will stop beating or beat ineffectively, leading to a decrease in blood flow to the brain and other vital organs.

"Calling 911, starting CPR, and using an AED promptly is crucial for increasing the chances of survival during cardiac arrest."

Correcting Abnormal Heart Rhythms

• Ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia are abnormal heart rhythms that can often be corrected by defibrillation, which is an electrical shock delivered by an AED.

• When effective, the shock disrupts the abnormal electrical activity, allowing the heart to develop an effective rhythm on its own.

"Defibrillation through an AED can correct abnormal heart rhythms like ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia by disrupting the abnormal electrical activity."

Ease of AED Use

• AEDs are simple to use as the device guides the user every step of the way through voice and visual prompts.

• AEDs can be used on people of all ages, including pregnant women.

• To use an AED, one simply needs to turn the device on and follow the instructions provided.

"AEDs are user-friendly, providing step-by-step guidance through voice and visual prompts for people of all ages, including pregnant women."

Time Sensitivity

• Starting CPR immediately and using an AED as soon as possible are vital.

• For every minute that CPR and AED use are delayed, the person's chance of survival is reduced by about 10 percent.

"Immediate initiation of CPR and prompt use of an AED are critical since each minute of delay decreases the chance of survival by approximately 10 percent."