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AED · members guide

Using an AED

by Joe Miller

An AED, or automated external defibrillator, is a box that shocks a stopped heart back into a normal rhythm. It talks you through every step, and it only shocks when a shock is needed. Used with CPR in the first few minutes, it is the best chance a person in cardiac arrest has.

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Using an AED: four steps1Turn it onOpen the lid or press thegreen button. It startstalking; follow it.2Attach the padsBare chest, pads where thepictures show, plug in theconnector if needed.3Stand clearNobody touches the personwhile it analyzes the heartrhythm.4Shock, then CPRIf it says shock: "Everyoneclear!" and press thebutton. Then push againright away.Keep doing CPR. The AED checks the rhythm again every 2 minutes and tells you what to do.It will only shock a heart that needs it. You cannot hurt someone by using it.
Every AED works the same basic way and talks you through it.

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