Where Are AEDs Located? How Do I Use an AED? Should My Business Have an AED? Which AED Is Best?
Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are strategically placed in public and private locations to ensure quick access during sudden cardiac arrest emergencies. Common locations include:
- Public Spaces: Airports, train stations, bus terminals, shopping malls, grocery stores, and movie theaters
- Government and Community Buildings: Courthouses, city halls, libraries, and community centers
- Educational Institutions: Schools, colleges, and universities, often in hallways, cafeterias, or gymnasiums
- Workplaces: Office buildings, factories, and corporate campuses, typically in break rooms or near first-aid stations
- Sports and Recreational Facilities: Gyms, sports arenas, swimming pools, and fitness centers
- Transportation: Airplanes, cruise ships, and some public transit hubs
- Residential Settings: Some homes, condominiums, or apartment complexes, especially for high-risk individuals
- Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes, though these are primarily for professional use
AEDs are often mounted on walls in clearly marked cabinets with signs indicating their presence. In public places, they’re typically placed in high-traffic areas for visibility and accessibility. Whether in a public venue or private workplace, having an AED for business settings can be the difference between life and death.
How to Use an AED
An AED is designed to be user-friendly, with voice and visual prompts guiding even untrained individuals through the process. Here’s how to use one in an emergency:
Assess the Situation
Check if the person is breathing. If they’ve collapsed, aren’t breathing, or are only gasping, they may be in sudden cardiac arrest.
Call for Help
Dial 911 or ask someone nearby to call emergency services. If you’re alone, call 911 before proceeding. If others are present, assign one person to call 911 and another to retrieve the AED.
Turn On the AED
Open the AED case and press the power button (some models activate automatically when opened). The device will provide step-by-step voice instructions.
Prepare the Person
Expose the person’s chest by removing or pulling up clothing. If necessary, dry the chest or shave excessive hair to ensure pads adhere properly. Follow AED prompts to place adhesive electrode pads on the chest (one on the upper right, one on the lower left, as shown in diagrams on the pads).
Analyze the Heart Rhythm
Ensure no one is touching the person. Say “stand clear” loudly to keep others away. The AED will analyze the heart rhythm to determine if a shock is needed. Do not touch the person during this step.
Deliver the Shock (if Prompted)
If the AED advises a shock, confirm no one is touching the person, say “stand clear” again, and press the shock button when instructed.
If no shock is needed, the AED will guide you to proceed to CPR.
Perform CPR
After a shock (or if no shock is advised), begin CPR if the person isn’t breathing or moving. The AED may provide CPR guidance, such as counting compressions. Continue CPR until the AED prompts another analysis, the person shows obvious signs of life such as gaining consciousness, or emergency responders take over.
Repeat as Needed
Follow the AED’s instructions to alternate between rhythm analysis (every 2 minutes), shocks (if needed), and CPR until professional help arrives.
Additional Tips
Training
While AEDs are designed for untrained users, taking a CPR and AED certification course (e.g., through Health Solutions of America or the Academy of Resuscitation Training) builds confidence and skills.
Maintenance
If you or your business has an AED, register it with Health Solutions of America so they can track the unit and replace pads and batteries when they expire. Also, register it with the manufacturer for recall alerts.
Purchase or Lease an AED
If you’d like to purchase or lease an AED for business or home use that is best suited to your needs, email he**@**********************ca.com for inquiries!