AED

Importance of AEDs

Current research indicates that the chance of surviving Sudden Cardiac Arrest is improved by up to 70% if an AED is used within the first few minutes. How the AED works, why they are so important and more research information will be introduced in this first section.

AED History

Defibrillators have been around for over 60 years, but the first AED, Automated External Defibrillator, was introduced in 1979 and weighed 110 pounds! The technology has changed significantly and this section covers those changes and the general workings of the modern AED.

AED & the Chain of Survival

There are four critical links to the Chain of Survival and this segment explores all four and how the AED plays a huge role in increasing the chances of survival.

Heart Attacks & Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of a Heart Attack is one of the most important elements of CPR and AED training. Another key element is understanding the difference between a Heart Attack and Sudden Cardiac Arrest. These topics will be explored thoroughly.

Review of C.A.R.E. CPR™

A complete review and step by step demonstration of Adult C.A.R.E. CPR™ will be presented here.

Introduction to AED

Why the AED is necessary even if CPR is performed is explored as well as essential information regarding AED use with Children and Infants.

Determining the need for AED

Simple Do’s and Don’ts of how to determine if an AED is needed.

Additional Preparation

A few additional suggestions on how to prepare the casualty if you determine an AED is necessary and some preparation tips that will ensure you are always ready.

Using an AED

This section covers each step of using an AED and will be demonstrated by the instructor as the steps are covered. Information regarding what to do if “No Shock is Advised” is also examined.

Post Resuscitation Care

Care for the casualty if they regain consciousness while the Emergency Medical Team is on the way will be discussed.

Medical Director

This section covers the role of the Medical Director and the responsibility of the emergency care providers.

Key Points

Important safety protocol will be introduced here, as well as words of encouragement for the responder. The AED will guide the rescuer in what to do.

AED Rescue Sequence

The rescue sequence for a casualty of Sudden Cardiac Arrest will be discussed and demonstrated and each sequence will be examined closely.

Question & Answer Session

An open forum of Questions and Answers will be available throughout the course, but the instructor will give the class another opportunity to ask questions before they begin the skills practice session of the course.

AED Skill Practice

One of the most important goals of this course is to have each participant come away from this training with the confidence and competence to actually perform these skills in an emergency situation. Hands-on practice is one of the most important elements in skills retention and self-confidence.

Each class participant will be given the opportunity to practice the AED skills they learned about during the class. Each participant will be given their own barrier mask and gloves to protect them from infectious disease. Each person will need to complete the AED skills checklist to receive a certification card. If for any reason they are unable to perform the steps, they may verbally go through the practice steps.