Safety Training Seminars
Safety Training Seminars
Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, anytime. When it does, having an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) nearby and knowing how to use it can mean the difference between life and death. The American Heart Association’s Heartsaver AED Use algorithm provides a clear, step-by-step process that anyone can follow to respond effectively during a cardiac emergency.
Whether you’re a teacher, coach, office manager, or concerned citizen, understanding this algorithm empowers you to act confidently when seconds count.
The Heartsaver AED Use algorithm is a systematic approach designed by the American Heart Association to guide bystanders through using an AED during cardiac emergencies. It’s part of the broader Heartsaver CPR AED course, which trains the general public in lifesaving techniques.
An AED is a portable device that analyzes heart rhythms and delivers an electric shock when needed to restore normal heart function. The beauty of modern AEDs is their simplicity. They provide voice prompts and visual instructions that guide users through each step, making them accessible even to those with minimal training.
The algorithm follows a logical sequence that prioritizes victim safety, prompt action, and effective coordination with emergency responders. By following these steps, you maximize the victim’s chances of survival while minimizing risks to yourself and others nearby.
Before approaching the victim, quickly scan the environment for hazards. Look for dangers like traffic, fire, electrical hazards, or aggressive individuals. Your safety comes first because you can’t help anyone if you become a victim yourself.
If the scene is unsafe, don’t approach. Instead, call 911 immediately and wait for professional help. If you can safely remove the hazard or move the victim to a safer location without causing further harm, do so quickly.
Once you’ve confirmed the scene is safe, proceed to the next step without delay.
Tap the victim’s shoulder firmly and shout, “Are you okay?” Look for any signs of response such as movement, breathing, or verbal acknowledgment. If the person doesn’t respond, assume they need immediate help.
Check if the victim is breathing normally. Occasional gasps (called agonal respirations) don’t count as normal breathing. If breathing is absent or abnormal, cardiac arrest is likely.
This assessment should take no more than 10 seconds. Speed matters because brain damage can begin within minutes of cardiac arrest.
As soon as you determine the victim is unresponsive and not breathing normally, shout for help. If someone is nearby, direct them specifically: “You, in the blue shirt, call 911 and come back to tell me what they say.” This prevents the bystander effect where everyone assumes someone else will help.
If you’re alone, call 911 yourself using speakerphone so you can continue providing care while talking to the dispatcher. Many 911 operators can guide you through CPR steps if needed.
Send someone to get the nearest AED while you begin CPR. Many public spaces like schools, gyms, airports, and office buildings have AEDs mounted on walls in clearly marked cabinets.
If you’re alone and an AED is nearby (within a minute’s reach), get it immediately before starting CPR. If it’s farther away, start CPR first and retrieve the AED when help arrives or after completing several cycles of compressions.
Time is critical. Brain cells begin dying within four to six minutes without oxygen.
Start chest compressions immediately if the victim isn’t breathing normally. Place the heel of one hand on the center of the victim’s chest (lower half of the breastbone). Place your other hand on top and interlock your fingers.
Push hard and fast at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Compress the chest at least two inches deep for adults. Allow the chest to recoil completely between compressions.
After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths if you’re trained and willing. Tilt the head back, lift the chin, pinch the nose, and give breaths that make the chest rise. If you’re not comfortable giving breaths or unsure how, continue with hands-only CPR.
Once the AED arrives, turn it on immediately. Some models power on automatically when you open the case. The device will begin providing voice prompts that guide you through each step.
Continue CPR while the AED is being set up. Don’t stop compressions unless absolutely necessary.
Expose the victim’s chest by removing or cutting away clothing. The chest should be bare and dry. If the chest is wet, quickly dry it with a towel or cloth.
Take the adhesive pads from the AED package. Most AEDs have diagrams on the pads showing exactly where to place them. Generally, one pad goes on the upper right chest (below the collarbone) and the other on the lower left side (below the armpit).
Press the pads firmly to ensure good contact with the skin. Make sure the pads don’t overlap and aren’t touching each other.
Once the pads are attached, the AED will analyze the heart rhythm. The device will tell you to stop touching the victim. Make sure no one is touching the person during this analysis.
Look around and clearly state, “Everyone clear!” This ensures nobody interferes with the analysis or accidentally receives a shock.
The analysis typically takes just a few seconds. The AED determines whether a shock is needed based on the heart rhythm it detects.
If the AED determines a shock is needed, it will charge automatically and prompt you to press the shock button. Before pressing the button, perform a final visual check to confirm nobody is touching the victim.
Clearly announce, “Shocking!” or “Everyone stay clear!” Then press the shock button as instructed.
After delivering the shock, immediately resume CPR starting with chest compressions. Don’t wait to check for signs of life or a pulse.
Continue performing CPR for about two minutes (approximately five cycles of 30 compressions and two breaths). The AED will prompt you when to pause for another rhythm analysis.
If the AED indicates no shock is needed, continue CPR immediately. Some heart rhythms causing cardiac arrest don’t respond to shocks, but CPR is still critical for circulating oxygenated blood.
Keep going until professional help arrives, the victim shows obvious signs of life (normal breathing, movement), or you’re too exhausted to continue safely.
For children (ages 1 to 8), use pediatric AED pads if available. These pads deliver a lower energy shock appropriate for smaller bodies. If pediatric pads aren’t available, adult pads can be used.
Place one pad on the chest and one on the back for small children to prevent the pads from touching each other. For infants (under 1 year), a manual defibrillator is preferred, but an AED with pediatric pads can be used if that’s all that’s available.
Never use an AED on someone lying in water. Pull the victim to dry ground first. If the chest is wet from rain, sweat, or water, quickly dry it before attaching the pads.
Water can interfere with the electrical shock and potentially harm rescuers nearby.
If you notice medication patches on the chest (like nitroglycerin or nicotine patches), remove them before placing AED pads. Wipe away any residual medication to ensure good pad contact.
These patches can interfere with the electrical shock and may cause burns.
Some victims have implanted pacemakers or defibrillators visible as small lumps under the chest skin. Don’t place AED pads directly over these devices. Position the pads at least one inch away from the implant.
The AED shock can still be effective even with these adjustments.
Understanding the Heartsaver AED Use algorithm is essential, but hands-on practice makes all the difference. At Safety Training Seminars, we offer American Heart Association Heartsaver CPR AED courses designed specifically for the general public.
Our training approach combines convenient online learning with in-person skills testing at one of our 70+ locations throughout California. You’ll complete the theoretical portion at your own pace (typically 1-2 hours), then demonstrate your skills with our experienced instructors during a 30-45 minute session.
We make certification accessible and affordable. Our classes run daily, including evenings and weekends, and we back our training with the lowest price guarantee in California. You’ll receive your official American Heart Association certification card the same day as your skills test.
Whether you work in childcare, education, fitness, or simply want to be prepared for emergencies in your community, our courses provide the confidence and competence you need. We’ve trained thousands of individuals across California, earning thousands of 5-star reviews for our excellent customer service and quality instruction.
Ready to learn skills that could save a life? Visit our website or call us today to schedule your Heartsaver CPR AED certification class at a location near you. Our friendly customer service team is available seven days a week to answer your questions and help you get started.