Lifesavers should be able to operate an automated external defibrillator (AED) safely on adults and children.
Preparation
- Move the patient from danger before operating the AED (e.g., if they are in a pool of liquid such as water, vomit, blood)
- Remove patient’s clothing without interrupting CPR work around the compression operator to cut off using shears. This includes bras and wetsuits
- Ensure the chest is clean and dry prior to applying AED pads – dry the patient’s chest after removal from an aquatic environment or to remove sweat. Remove excessive chest hair at the site of application with a razor if needed, to allow for pad adherence to the patient’s skin
- Remove any ‘quick and easy to remove’ necklaces or other body jewelry that is in the way of, or within 2.5 cm of, pad placement before AED use. If it is unable to be removed quickly, do not delay AED use
- Do not place AED pads over medication patches
- Make sure that the AED pads are at least 8 cm away from an implanted pacemaker or internal defibrillator
- Apply AED pads around the compression operator, without interrupting CPR – apply with a smooth rolling action to prevent air bubbles underneath
- Ensure the AED pads are not touching each other
- Do not reposition or remove AED pads once they have been applied. Note, on arrival, Paramedics will likely replace the AED pads with their own, as they are not interchangeable with different defibrillator models.
Use
- Ensure compression operator’s hands are hovering above the chest during AED analysis and shock, ready to re-start CPR quickly
- Ensure that no-one has contact with the patient during shock delivery
- Oxygen flow should be directed away from the patient’s chest during defibrillation, however, the oxygen cylinder does not need to be moved away or turned off
- Avoid operating an AED in an unstable environment that may prevent it from performing a valid assessment of the patient, e.g., in a moving vehicle
- Do not operate an AED in an explosive environment, e.g., where gases or fumes might be present.
Refer to the AED manufacturer’s guidelines to note any additional safety precautions for the AEDs used at your surf lifesaving club, e.g., their level of water resistance for wet weather conditions.