Req 7b — AEDs

An AED is one of the most important medical devices ever created for ordinary people. It can literally bring someone back to life — and it is designed so that anyone can use it, even with no training.

What Is an AED?

An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable device that analyzes the heart’s rhythm and, if needed, delivers an electrical shock to restore a normal heartbeat. It is used during cardiac arrest — when the heart has stopped beating effectively.

When the heart goes into cardiac arrest, it often enters a chaotic rhythm called ventricular fibrillation (V-fib). The heart muscle quivers rapidly instead of pumping blood. An AED delivers a controlled electrical shock that stops the chaotic rhythm, giving the heart a chance to reset and resume beating normally.

How to Use an AED

Step-by-Step

1. Continue CPR until the AED is powered on and ready. Every second without compressions reduces survival.
2. Turn on the AED. Press the power button or open the lid (some models turn on automatically when opened).
3. Attach the pads. Peel the adhesive pads from the packaging and place them on the victim’s bare chest as shown in the diagram on the pads:
   • One pad on the upper right chest, below the collarbone
   • One pad on the lower left side, below the armpit
4. Clear the victim. Make sure no one is touching the person. The AED needs a clear reading.
5. Let the AED analyze. The device will say “Analyzing heart rhythm — do not touch the patient.” Wait.
6. If a shock is advised: The AED will say “Shock advised. Stand clear.” Make sure no one is touching the victim. Press the shock button when prompted.
7. Resume CPR immediately after the shock. The AED will prompt you to continue compressions.
8. If no shock is advised: The AED will tell you. Continue CPR. The AED will re-analyze every 2 minutes.

Important Details

• Bare chest required. Remove clothing from the chest. If the chest is wet, dry it quickly. If the person has excessive chest hair, the pads may not stick — some AED kits include a razor.
• Medication patches. If the person has a medication patch (nitroglycerin, nicotine) where a pad needs to go, remove it with a gloved hand and wipe the area before placing the pad.
• Implanted pacemaker or defibrillator. Look for a lump under the skin on the upper chest. Place the AED pad at least one inch away from it.
• Children under 8 or under 55 pounds. Use pediatric pads if available. If not, adult pads can be used — place one on the front of the chest and one on the back.

CPR + AED Together

The AED works best when combined with high-quality CPR:

1. Start CPR as soon as you confirm cardiac arrest.
2. Send someone to get the AED while you do compressions.
3. When the AED arrives, turn it on and follow the prompts — but minimize interruptions to CPR.
4. After each shock (or “no shock advised”), resume CPR immediately.
5. Continue the cycle of CPR and AED analysis until EMS arrives or the person starts breathing.

Finding AEDs in Your Community

AEDs are placed in locations where large numbers of people gather and where cardiac arrest is most likely to be witnessed. For this requirement, identify AED locations at places like:

• Schools — often in the main office, gymnasium, or cafeteria
• Places of worship — in the foyer or main gathering area
• Scout meeting places — your troop’s regular meeting location
• Sports facilities — gyms, pools, fields, and recreation centers
• Community buildings — libraries, community centers, government offices
• Airports, malls, and transit stations
• Camp — the health lodge or dining hall at Scout camp

Why These Locations?

AEDs are placed where:

• Many people are present (higher statistical chance of a cardiac event)
• Physical exertion occurs (sports facilities, gyms)
• Older adults gather (places of worship, community centers)
• Emergency response time may be long (remote camps, large buildings)

Smartphone AED Locators

Several apps and websites map AED locations: