AED Use
Early defibrillation is the definitive treatment for ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia, and survival falls with every minute defibrillation is delayed. The BLS provider's job is to integrate the AED into CPR with the shortest possible interruption in compressions.
The AED sequence
As soon as an AED arrives, turn it on and follow the voice prompts. Attach the pads to the victim's bare, dry chest in the positions shown on the pads (typically upper-right chest and lower-left side). While the AED analyzes the rhythm, ensure no one is touching the victim and clearly announce 'Clear.' If a shock is advised, again make sure everyone is clear, then press the shock button. Immediately after the shock — or immediately if no shock is advised — resume chest compressions without stopping to check a pulse; the next rhythm and pulse check comes at the end of the 2-minute CPR cycle.
Pediatric use and special situations
For a child younger than 8 years, use pediatric pads or a pediatric dose attenuator if available; if only adult pads are available, use them rather than withhold defibrillation, but do not let the two pads touch each other. Dry a wet chest and move the victim out of standing water before shocking. Remove transdermal medication patches and wipe the area, since a patch under a pad can block energy delivery and cause burns. For an implanted pacemaker or defibrillator, place the pad at least 1 inch away from the device.