Instructions for Using a Philips HeartStart AED

The Philips HeartStart automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable unit designed for use by the general public. In the case of sudden cardiac arrest, the HeartStart AED provides voice-guided instruction on why and how the device should be used. Sudden cardiac arrest is a condition in which the heart stops beating, and it can happen for various reasons to anyone. The Community Access to Emergency Devices Act of 2002 provided $30 million in funds for states to provide AEDs in public places.

Things You'll Need

• Philips HeartStart AED

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Instructions

Assessing the Patient

• 1

  Remain calm and direct another person to call for emergency medical services.

• 2

  Check the patient. If there is a delay in accessing the AED, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) until it is available.

• 3

  Assess the area for flammable gases, such as an oxygen tent. The AED should not be used in such environments.

Using the AED

• 4

  Pull the green handle. This turns on the HeartStart AED. Listen carefully to the directions given.

• 5

  Remove clothing from the patient's chest.

• 6

  Pull the tab to release the pads cartridge, which contains two pads. Each pad displays a picture of its exact placement location. Peel the pads one at a time to expose the adhesive and place them exactly where indicated. The AED begins monitoring the patient's heart rhythm as soon as the pads are placed.

• 7

  Ensure that no one is touching the patient. Press the shock button. If you know CPR, you can begin administering it at this point (or resume if CPR was necessary before using the AED). If you do not know CPR, press the blue "i" button for CPR coaching.

• 8

  Continue CPR until emergency medical services arrive. They will remove the HeartStart pads and determine the best course of treatment. Replace the used pads cartridge with a fresh cartridge so that the AED is ready for use should it be needed again.