Defibrillation Approach safely Check response Open airway Check breathing
Attach AED CPR
Defibrillation using an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is now considered a BASIC FIRST AID SKILL. AED’s are located in a variety of community locations in SA for example Adelaide Airport, shopping centres, swimming pools, schools and workplaces. Type of cardiac Arrest ‐
Irregular uncoordinated heart beat (VF/VT)
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Pump Failure, not enough blood to pump around & other causes such as asphyxia (PEA)
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A heart at standstill, no activity (Asystole)
What does defibrillation do ‐
Is actually a heart stopper – the shock stuns and stops uncoordinated electrical activity in the hope the heart’s own pacemaker will “reset” and a coordinated activity and pumping will occur
There is some slight difference if an AED is present at time of collapse. If an AED is available its use takes priority over CPR.