Safety Training Seminars
Safety Training Seminars
An automated external defibrillator (AED) can mean the difference between life and death during sudden cardiac arrest. When combined with proper Basic Life Support (BLS) techniques, AED use becomes a powerful tool that can restart a heart and save a life. Every minute counts during cardiac emergencies, and knowing how to use an AED correctly could help you become someone’s hero.
Sudden cardiac arrest affects over 350,000 people annually in the United States alone. The survival rate drops by 10% for every minute that passes without defibrillation. This is why understanding BLS AED use is so critical. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, workplace safety coordinator, or concerned citizen, mastering these skills can make you an invaluable first responder.
An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable, life-saving device that analyzes heart rhythms and delivers electrical shocks when needed. During sudden cardiac arrest, the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, causing irregular rhythms called arrhythmias. An AED can detect these dangerous rhythms and deliver a controlled shock to reset the heart’s normal electrical activity.
AEDs are designed to be user-friendly, with clear voice prompts and visual instructions. They only deliver shocks when medically necessary, making them safe for trained and untrained users alike. The device automatically analyzes the patient’s heart rhythm and determines whether a shock is needed.
Modern AEDs are found in airports, schools, offices, gyms, and public spaces. They’re lightweight, battery-powered, and require minimal maintenance. Most units provide voice instructions in multiple languages and include visual diagrams on the device itself.
Before reaching for an AED, assess the person’s condition. Tap their shoulders firmly and shout “Are you okay?” Look for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds. If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, begin the AED protocol immediately.
Call 911 or have someone else make the call while you prepare the AED. Time is critical during cardiac arrest, so move quickly but deliberately through each step.
Locate the nearest AED and bring it to the patient’s side. Most AEDs automatically turn on when you open the case or lift the lid. Others have a power button. Once activated, the device will begin providing audio instructions.
Listen carefully to the AED’s prompts and follow them exactly. The device is programmed to guide you through the entire process, so trust its instructions even if you feel uncertain.
Remove all clothing from the patient’s chest. The skin must be completely dry and free of medication patches, jewelry, or other obstructions. For adults, place one pad on the upper right side of the chest, below the collarbone. Place the second pad on the lower left side of the chest, below the armpit.
The pads must make complete contact with the skin. Press firmly around all edges to ensure proper adhesion. If the patient has excessive chest hair, you may need to shave the area quickly or use a backup set of pads.
Once the pads are properly attached, the AED will analyze the heart rhythm. Make sure no one is touching the patient during this analysis phase. Announce “CLEAR!” loudly and look around to ensure everyone has stepped back.
The analysis typically takes 5-15 seconds. Do not touch the patient, perform CPR, or move the patient during this critical phase. The AED needs accurate rhythm data to determine the appropriate treatment.
If the AED determines that a shock is needed, it will charge automatically and instruct you to press the shock button. Before delivering the shock, announce “CLEAR!” again and visually confirm that no one is touching the patient.
Press the shock button firmly when instructed. You may see the patient’s body stiffen briefly as the electrical current passes through. If the AED advises “no shock,” proceed directly to Step 6.
Immediately after the shock (or if no shock was advised), begin high-quality CPR. Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest between the nipples. Place your other hand on top, interlacing your fingers. Push hard and fast at least 2 inches deep at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
Continue CPR for exactly 2 minutes (about 5 cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths). The AED will typically count down or alert you when the 2-minute period is complete.
After 2 minutes of CPR, the AED will automatically reanalyze the heart rhythm. Follow the device’s instructions for additional shocks or continued CPR. Repeat this cycle until emergency medical services arrive and take over care.
Do not remove the AED pads or turn off the device. EMS personnel will need to see the device’s data and may continue using it for patient care.
For children under 8 years old or weighing less than 55 pounds, use pediatric AED pads if available. These pads deliver a reduced energy dose appropriate for smaller bodies. If pediatric pads are not available, use adult pads but ensure they don’t touch each other on the child’s chest.
For infants under 1 year old, manual defibrillation by trained medical professionals is preferred. However, if no other help is available and adult AED pads are the only option, place one pad on the chest and one on the back.
If you notice a pacemaker or other implanted device (usually visible as a small bump under the skin), place the AED pads at least one inch away from the device. The electrical shock from the AED can damage these devices if pads are placed directly over them.
Look for medical alert bracelets or necklaces that might indicate the presence of implanted devices. When in doubt, maintain the one-inch distance rule for pad placement.
Remove any transdermal medication patches from the chest area before applying AED pads. Use gloves if available and wipe the area clean. Common patches include nitroglycerin, nicotine, and pain medication patches.
If the patient is wet from rain, swimming, or other causes, dry the chest area quickly before applying pads. Water can interfere with proper electrical conduction and reduce the AED’s effectiveness.
While AEDs are designed for ease of use, proper training significantly improves your confidence and technique during real emergencies. Professional instruction helps you understand the science behind defibrillation, practice on realistic training equipment, and learn to work effectively as part of an emergency response team.
Training programs also cover legal protections under Good Samaritan laws, which protect individuals who provide emergency assistance in good faith. Most states require specific certifications for workplace AED programs and healthcare settings.
Regular practice helps maintain muscle memory and keeps your skills sharp. Emergency situations are stressful, and training helps you respond automatically when adrenaline is high and every second counts.
Understanding BLS AED use is just the beginning. To truly be prepared for cardiac emergencies, hands-on practice with professional instructors makes all the difference. At Safety Training Seminars, we provide comprehensive American Heart Association-certified BLS training that combines online coursework with practical skills testing.
Our training covers all aspects of BLS AED use, from basic CPR techniques to advanced team dynamics. You’ll practice on high-quality manikins and AED trainers that simulate real emergency conditions. We offer convenient scheduling at over 70 locations throughout California, with classes available every day including weekends and evenings.
When you complete our BLS course, you’ll receive your American Heart Association certification card the same day. Our 100% pass rate guarantee ensures you’ll leave feeling confident and prepared. We’re an official AHA Training Center with thousands of 5-star reviews from medical professionals who trust us for their certification needs.
Ready to gain the skills that could save a life? Visit our website or contact our customer service team to schedule your BLS training today. Our staff is available every day from 7 AM to 7 PM to help you find the perfect class time and location. Don’t wait until an emergency happens—prepare yourself now with the gold standard in BLS AED training.