When should a defibrillator be used?

1. When to Use a Defibrillator/AED?*

Most victims of sudden cardiac arrest suffer from ventricular fibrillation, a condition where the heart's muscle fibers contract out of sync, without rhythm, and are unable to produce an effective heartbeat. In this situation, the best course of action is to deliver an electric shock to the heart to defibrillate it, allowing the heart to reestablish an effective rhythm, and perform CPR on the victim.

It is important to know how to identify a victim of cardiac arrest and when a defibrillator/AED is needed. The defibrillator/AED should be used when the victim shows clear signs of circulatory arrest, which can be recognized through the following signs:

- Unconsciousness: Check by tapping the victim’s shoulder firmly and calling out loudly: “Are you okay?”

  - No breathing: Check by bringing your ear close to the victim’s nose and mouth while watching the chest for any rise and fall.

- Gasping: This is considered the final effort to breathe before complete respiratory arrest. It is characterized by slow, irregular, and intermittent breathing.

- No pulse: Check by placing two fingers on the victim's wrist or just below the jawline.

2. How to Use a Defibrillator/AED

With audio and visual instructions, defibrillators/AEDs are designed to be simple and easy to use for everyone. Here are the steps to use the device:

Step 1: Preparation

Defibrillators/AEDs can be found in cabinets marked with a heart and lightning symbol. Ensure the victim is not in a wet area or on a metal surface.

Step 2: Apply AED pads to the victim’s chest:

Remove any electronic devices like phones or smartwatches from the victim. Expose the victim's chest and dry it. Apply the AED pads correctly—one pad on the right chest just below the collarbone, and one pad on the left side of the ribcage. Turn on the device and follow the instructions.

Step 3: Wait for the device to analyze and follow the instructions.

Ensure no one touches the victim during the analysis process. If the shock button with the lightning bolt symbol (heart and lightning) flashes or lights up, the victim needs an electric shock. Press the shock button and ensure no one touches the victim during the shock. If the shock button does not flash or light up, the victim does not need an electric shock. In this case, continue performing CPR on the victim as instructed by the device.

Step 4: Continue until the victim regains consciousness or medical personnel arrive.

3. Note when using a defibrillator/ AED

3.1 Always remember to perform CPR immediately!

Each passing minute reduces the victim’s chances of survival by 7% to 10%. Therefore, start CPR immediately to help circulate blood and oxygen throughout the body. Do not waste time searching for a defibrillator/AED; if someone is available to assist while you perform CPR, ask them to retrieve the device.

3.2 AED pads for children or adults

The energy level of the shock delivered by the AED differs between adults and children (children aged 1-8 years or weighing less than 25kg) because the energy is calculated based on the victim’s weight. Additionally, the placement of the pads varies depending on the age group. Ensure you are using the appropriate pads for the specific victim. 

Note: For some defibrillators/AEDs, the pads can be used for both adults and children. Make sure to switch the mode accordingly before proceeding with first aid.

3.3 Ensure conditions on the victim for effective device operation

Remove any metal objects from the victim, such as watches, belts, bracelets, necklaces, or phones, as these items can interfere with the device's analysis and shock process. Sweat or water can reduce the effectiveness of the shock. Therefore, if the victim is sweaty or has been rescued from water, dry them off before using the defibrillator/AED.

3.4 Absolutely do not touch the victim while the device is analyzing or delivering a shock.

During use, the device will analyze the victim’s condition to determine whether a shock is necessary. Keep in mind:

- Touching the victim while the device is analyzing can result in incorrect readings.

- The electric current from the defibrillator/AED may cause the heart to temporarily stop, allowing it to restart normally. If a healthy person is exposed to this current, it can be extremely dangerous.

Using a defibrillator/AED correctly and efficiently not only helps increase the effectiveness of the operation but also ensures the safety of the operator and the equipment. Always follow the guidelines and safety rules when using a defibrillator to achieve the best results.