Common mistakes when using an AED and solutions

1. Not knowing when to perform CPR or use an AED 

People often hesitate, unsure of whether to use an AED or perform CPR on a cardiac arrest victim. Remember, in all cases of cardiac arrest, whether or not an AED is available, you must start CPR as soon as possible for the following reasons:

- When an AED is not available, or if the AED does not advise a shock, CPR is necessary to help circulate blood to vital organs.

- If the AED does recommend a shock, the victim’s heart will stop after the shock and will need blood and oxygen to resume a normal rhythm. CPR helps provide this necessary blood flow.

2. Using an AED when the victim is on a wet surface or metal surface

Water and metal are excellent conductors of electricity. Using an AED in a wet environment or on a metal surface poses a high risk of electric shock to both the user and the victim. Additionally, water and metal can interfere with the AED's ability to analyze the heart's rhythm.

Solution: 

To ensure the safety of both the user and the victim, and to maintain the effectiveness of the AED, avoid using the device in wet environments or on metal surfaces. Instead:

- Move the victim to a dry location before using the AED.

- If moving the victim is not possible, dry the victim's chest before applying the AED pads.

3. Failing to remove electronic devices from the victim 

Metal objects and electronic devices such as watches, belts, bracelets, necklaces, and phones can interfere with the AED's ability to analyze the heart's rhythm and deliver an effective shock.

Solution:

Remove all metal objects and electronic devices from the victim before using the AED.

4. Not drying the victim's chest before applying the Pads

Sweat or water on the victim’s chest can reduce the effectiveness of the shock.

Solution:

If the victim is sweaty or has been rescued from water, make sure to dry their chest thoroughly before using the AED.

5. Incorrect placement of AED Pads

If the AED pads are not placed correctly, the device may not be able to analyze or deliver a shock to the victim.

Solution: 

Choose AEDs that provide clear instructions, both visual and auditory, for pad placement to avoid this mistake.

6. Touching the victim during analysis or shock delivery

During use, the AED will analyze the victim’s condition to decide whether a shock is needed. It’s important to note that:

- Touching the victim during analysis can lead to inaccurate results.

- The shock delivered by the AED temporarily stops the heart to allow it to return to a normal rhythm. This shock can be dangerous to a healthy person if they are in contact with the victim.