If someone suddenly collapses, does not respond and is not breathing normally, act immediately. You cannot get it wrong with an AED: the device itself decides whether a shock is needed.
1. Make sure it is safe and call 113
Check that the area is safe. Speak to the casualty and check their breathing. Call 113 (or 112) and ask someone to bring the AED.
2. Start chest compressions
Press in the centre of the chest 5–6 cm deep, 100–120 times a minute. Do not stop until the AED is ready.
3. Switch on the AED and attach the pads
Bare the chest. Attach the pads as shown on their packaging – one below the right collarbone, the other on the left side below the armpit.
4. Let the AED analyse
Nobody may touch the casualty. If a shock is needed, a fully automatic AED delivers it by itself, while a semi-automatic AED asks you to press the flashing button.
5. Continue chest compressions
Straight after the shock, resume compressions, following the AED's metronome and prompts, until the emergency medical service arrives.
Would you like your staff to try it in practice? Book training with a training defibrillator.
