| NOTE
In March 2020, the date of update of the recommendations in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the high risk of transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus was identified. Thus, it forced us to reinforce all priorities in security measures with the citizen as a resuscitator, all those around us and with the victim himself, always starting from the strictest principle of preventing the spread of the virus between all parties. All the contents published here are related to the actions of the citizen (layman). These recommendations do not focus on what health professionals should do in a similar situation, as the indications are necessarily different. We reinforce that this information is intended for the general public, without access to protective equipment and that care and protection must be taken before starting measures, which expose you to any type of risk. |
What is an automated external defibrillator?
The Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a piece of equipment used in the cardiorespiratory arrest (CPA) and its function is to apply an electrical charge to the chest.
The purpose of the automated external defibrillator is to be used by non-health professionals, ideally trained in Basic Life Support (BLS).
Defibrillation does not increase the risk of contagion from COVID-19.
What is defibrillation?
Defibrillation consists of the application of an electrical current to a victim in cardiorespiratory arrest through an automated external defibrillator, with the aim of reversing the cardiac arrest. As a result, the heart contracts again and pumps blood to the body, namely to the brain and heart.
How to use an automated external defibrillator?
The automated external defibrillator should be used by people who are trained to do so, but there are some basic steps:
- turn on the machine using the On/Off button
- Remove clothing in such a way as to expose the victim's chest
- place the self-adhesive plates on the victim's chest; according to the image on the plates
- Connect the plates to the automated external defibrillator via the connector
- Follow the audible or visual instructions of the automated external defibrillator
- Ensure that no one touches the victim during the heart rhythm analysis by the automated external defibrillator
- Follow the instructions issued by the automated external defibrillator:
- whether shock is indicated
- administering shock
- Immediately resume continuous compressions
- If shock is not indicated
- Immediately resume compressions
- whether shock is indicated
- Continue with compressions for 2 minutes. After this time, the defibrillator will start a new rhythm analysis
- If you are not alone, switch positions with the other person after each analysis (2 minutes) to prevent exhaustion
Can I stop the manoeuvres with the defibrillator?
No. Do not interrupt resuscitation unless:
- a healthcare professional tells you to do it
- the victim is awake, moving and breathing normally
- Feel exhausted and can't keep going
What are the safety rules when using the automated external defibrillator?
- For the resuscitator: Do not touch the victim during the analysis, loading, or administration of the shock
- For witnesses: make sure the place is safe. During the analysis and administration of shock, ensure that no one touches the victim or objects in contact with the victim
Are there any special precautions when using the defibrillator?
yes. There are a few important issues when using an automated external defibrillator:
- Damp chest: If the victim has a damp or wet chest, dry it before placing the self-adhesive plates
- Stickers: Remove stickers or any other material stuck to the victim's skin
- Pacemakers: Some victims have a pacemaker and it is usually visible under the skin of the chest just below the right or left collarbone. Make sure that the self-adhesive plates are not placed on top of, but next to or below it
- Jewellery: Remove any metal jewellery or piercings that may be in contact with the self-adhesive plates
Can I use an automated external defibrillator on children?
Common defibrillators are suitable for children over 8 years old (or more than 25 Kg). In infants less than 1 year of age, priority for resuscitation should be through basic life support.
Source: Portuguese Resuscitation Council