First Aid using a Defibrillator / AED | Wellbeing

What is Defibrillation? The process begins by exposing the victim's chest and removing metal objects such as jewelry or body piercings. Before applying the electrode pads, shave the chest hair if necessary to ensure optimal skin contact and reduce the risk of burns. However, only do so if a razor is readily available and do not delay the procedure for more than 20 seconds. The rescuer must also remove any medical patches (such as adhesive medication or nicotine patches) while wearing gloves. This ensures the shock is not obstructed or transmitted through the patch; notably, failure to remove a nicotine patch can pose a fire hazard during the shock delivery.

How Does a Defibrillator Work? When Sudden Cardiac Arrest occurs due to any cause, blood ceases to flow to vital organs—particularly the brain and coronary arteries—potentially leading to strokes or, more dangerously, brain death. At this critical juncture, a support device is needed to help the heart resume contracting. Public Access Defibrillators are small, portable devices mounted in highly visible locations and designed for use by laypeople. The unit consists of a sensor component that scans the patient's heart rhythm and sends signals to a processor. Once the information is analyzed, the device transmits an electric shock signal to restore the heart's natural rhythm.

How to Use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) In reality, using a public defibrillator is not difficult. Anyone can operate this device as it comes equipped with voice-guided instructions. First, remove the device from its case and examine the two chest pads. Expose the patient's chest skin completely. Peel and attach the pads to the corresponding positions on the chest, then wait a few seconds for the device to analyze the heart rhythm to determine if an electric shock is necessary. If an orange button lights up accompanied by a beeping sound, press that flashing orange button to deliver the shock. Following this, ensure the patient is lying flat. Place two hands on the patient's chest and perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), following the machine's guidance (often indicated by a flashing blue or green light or a metronome) until emergency medical teams arrive.

In Western countries, automated defibrillators have become commonplace. Thanks to this, countless lives are saved annually, and the long-term risks associated with strokes, sudden cardiac arrests, or dangerous arrhythmias are significantly reduced. It is our hope that with general societal development, these devices will soon be widely available across Vietnam.